This is not about the contemporary event we are experiencing in our state but rather about California during the period of 1821-1848.

Basically, Spaniards and Mexican families were in an interesting position. After living here a short while or for generations it seems that people developed even today what we call a “California attitude” – rather laid back. During the above period Mexico had defeated Spain and took over control of California. Mexico would send a man whom they appointed governor and in most cases he was sent back as not acceptable. There was no election, civil war, revolution, barracks junta, or assassination required to change Governors.

The Californios, as residents were called, would meet over a glass of wine or even a meal to discuss the latest appointed Governor. If for any reason the Governor did not agree with the desires of the Californios, he would be approached and advised of the Californios decision to replace him. The Governor would be sent back to Mexico, and the President of Mexico (there were 44 during this period) would appoint a new Governor.

The above seems like a reasonable way to settle this problem we have with our present political climate in California. If life were only as simple as it was in the Californio period!

The Californio period was very democratic and not overly complex as it is today. With the introduction of the United States political and legal systems came an entire different way of life. Today some important topics are power, money, graft, lobbyists, and greed, to mention a short list. What is best for those being governed is of no consequence – until just before election day, when anything will be promised but rarely honored.

Tom