US History FlashCard Series

California Missions FlashCard is perfect for studying and recalling important information on this holy saint.

Franciscan priests established 21 missions between 1769 and 1833 in Alta California, accompanied by military outposts. Their goal was to spread Christianity among the local Native Americans.

To facilitate overland travel, the mission settlements were situated approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) apart, about one day's journey on horseback, or three days on foot. The entire trail eventually became a 600-mile (966-kilometer) long 'California Mission Trail.' Tradition has it that the padres sprinkled mustard seeds along the trail to mark it with bright yellow flowers.