Welcome to the History of California!  Learners will explore California's geography, history, government, and economy.  Students will learn about the rich and diverse history of the state, beginning with the Indigenous peoples that inhabited the land long before European settlers arrived.  Learners will explore the colonization of California by the Spanish and the establishment of missions along the coast.  Overall, learners will come away with a comprehensive understanding of the state's diverse past that has shaped California into what it is today.

This class does not meet live. Learners receive a pre-recorded video and homework assignments each week in the Outschool Classroom.  Learners can turn in assignments to receive feedback.  Learners can expect a mix of readings, worksheets, projects, and activities to enhance learning.  Materials will be posted at 8 AM EST each Monday.  

Multiple viewpoints will be presented in this course using primary and secondary sources.

Each week, learners will explore a new theme in California history.  Part One will include an introduction to Indigenous peoples living in California and Spanish colonization.   Studying California's history provides insights into the state's rich heritage, diverse communities, and the complex interactions between various cultures and historical events that have shaped its identity.  The course outline below lists the various topics that will be explored each week during this class.

Course Outline:

Week 1:  California Map Skills 
Week 2:  California’s Wildlife
Week 3:  California’s Water Resources
Week 4:  California’s First People:  The Pomo
Week 5:  California’s First People:  The Miwok
Week 6:  California’s First People:  The Maidu
Week 7:  California’s First People:  The Chumash
Week 8:  California’s First People:  The Cahto
Week 9:  Hernando Cortes
Week 10:  Cabeza de Vaca
Week 11:  Juan Cabrillo
Week 12:  Sir Francis Drake
Week 13:  Spanish Missions
Week 14:  Russian Fur Traders
Week 15:  Mountain Men
Week 16:  Famous Trails