by John L Wiley. 1927. 292p

The Spanish colonization of California led to the establishment of missions to convert the native population to Christianity and exert Spanish control over the region. The arrival of the Spaniards brought significant changes, including the spread of European diseases and the exploitation of indigenous peoples. Similarly, the founding of Monrovia in the late 19th century was part of a real estate boom in Southern California, leading to rapid growth and development. Despite facing financial challenges, the city persisted and continued to progress, with significant advancements in the early 1900s.

Key Insights

• The Spanish missions in California aimed to convert natives to Christianity and establish Spanish dominance in the region.
• Spanish colonization brought changes such as the introduction of diseases and exploitation of indigenous peoples.
• Monrovia’s founding was part of a larger real estate boom in Southern California, leading to rapid growth and development.
• Despite facing financial challenges, Monrovia persisted and continued to progress, with advancements in public utilities and infrastructure.
• The early 1900s saw significant developments in Monrovia, including the establishment of the Monrovia Electric Light and Power Company and the construction of key buildings like the Woman’s Club Building and the American National Bank.