Option 1) Did the “coming of the railroads” in the mid- to late-19th century have a positive or negative impact on California through the 1920s? Consider: In what ways did the railroads revolutionize California economically, socially, and/or politically? How did the railroad exacerbate underlying social, political, environmental and/or economic tensions in California? Be specific.
Option 2) Compare and contrast the culture, politics, and economies of Spanish California and Mexican California. In what ways did Spanish culture persist in California after Mexico established its independence in 1821? What political challenges did California face under the new Mexican government?
Option 3) Trace the social, economic, cultural, and political changes to overall Native life in California under Spanish, Mexican, and American rule through the early 1900s. Be sure to discuss how these changes differ from traditional California Native life.
Note: it is not enough to focus singularly on disease and death. This question asks you to consider some of the changes affecting those who survived colonization.
Option 4) Characterize the American invasion and takeover of Mexican California. Which factors contributed to the early migration of American mountain men and tradesmen? How did the American takeover of California coincide with US national politics?