3.4: Franciscan Father-President: Fray Junipero Serra and Alta California

Send us Fan MailIts 1769, and Spain is renewing their efforts to colonize what they called “Alta California” on the Pacific Coast.  Leading the push was Fray Junipero Serra, a Franciscan whose efforts to spread the Catholic faith would earn him the title “Apostle of California.”  His actions would also lead to a re-examination of the role of Europeans in colonizing and Christianizing the Indigenous peoples of the lands in which they arrived, so his legacy isn’t without controversy.  Today's episode of History: Beyond the Textbook, the first of three episodes on "The West,"  focuses on Fray Junipero Serra, the Pious Father-President of Alta California. Key PeopleFray Junipero SerraFray Francisco PalouKumeyaays CochimiKey Events/IdeasColonization of CaliforniaFranciscan mission systemWe're back for Season Four of History: Beyond the Textbook!  This season will  focus on the stories of individuals who shaped "America's Federalist Era" in the years roughly 1789-1800.  The first six episodes will release every Tuesday from October 28-December 2, while the second six episodes will be released every Tuesday from February 17-March 24.   Catch up on Season One, "America's Colonial Era," Season Two, "America's Revolution," and Season Three, "America's Crucial Years," wherever you listen to your podcasts!Feel free to contact us with feedback or questions by clicking the "Send Us a Text" link or email us at: [email protected]