Coloma in El Dorado County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Changing California
Spanish Province
“California” was a Spanish province in 1769. For the colonizers, California was a rich region with boundless tracts of land that could be turned into profitable ranches. For Native Americans, California became a dangerous place, as many were enslaved through the Spanish mission system. Harsh living conditions and exposure to European diseased killed thousands.
Mexican Territory
“California” was a Mexican territory in 1823. For elite families, this was a golden era, as the government redistributed land from the abolished mission system. Rancheros ran their cattle and sheep ranches and ruled Mexican society. Even though there were no more missions, life for the Native Americans did not return to normal as many were forced to work on ranches.
American Domain
Many Americans saw California as a land of golden opportunity and began moving west in the 1830s and 1840s. They believed they had a duty to spread democracy across the continent, an idea called Manifest Destiny. But growing tension over these settlers led to the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).
Erected by California Department of Parks & Recreation.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Churches & Religion • Exploration • Native Americans • War, Mexican-American. A significant historical year for this entry is 1769.
Location. 38° 48.189′ N, 120° 53.578′ W. Marker is in Coloma, California, in El Dorado County. Marker can be reached from Coloma Road (California Route 49) north of Mt Murphy Road. The resin panel is mounted to a masonry wall at the mill replica. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Coloma CA 95613, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Changing Life for the Nisenan (here, next to this marker); Dreams of Success (a few steps from this marker); Trees, River, Access (a few steps from this marker); Cutting Edge (a few steps from this marker); Partners In History (within shouting distance of this marker); The Spirit of the Gold Rush (within shouting distance of this marker); Uncovering History (within shouting distance of this marker); James Wilson Marshall (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Coloma.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 23, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 23, 2023, by Joseph Alvarado of Livermore, California. This page has been viewed 66 times since then and 5 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 23, 2023, by Joseph Alvarado of Livermore, California.