When Spain held dominion over the territories that today comprise California and the Baja California peninsula, the region was collectively known as Las Californias. However, it was primarily distinguished into two specific administrative areas: Baja California and Alta California.
The Dual Provinces Under Spanish Rule
- Baja California: This term referred to the long, narrow peninsula stretching south, which is now part of Mexico. Spanish conquistadores, associated with the expeditions of Cortés, laid claim to this southern territory for the Spanish Crown as early as 1533.
- Alta California: Meaning "Upper California," this encompassed the northern portion, roughly corresponding to the modern U.S. state of California. Its addition to Spain's domain occurred in 1542 when the Portuguese explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo sailed northward past present-day San Diego. Cabrillo's voyage was notably driven by the ambition to discover the mythical Strait of Anián, a fabled sea route also known as the Northwest Passage.
Key Milestones in Spanish Claims
The table below summarizes the foundational claims that established Spanish ownership over the Californias:
| Region | Spanish Designation | Year Claimed | Key Explorer/Group | Primary Purpose of Exploration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Peninsula | Baja California | 1533 | Cortés's Conquistadores | Expansion of Spanish Crown |
| Northern Territory | Alta California | 1542 | Juan Cabrillo | Search for Strait of Anián/Northwest Passage |
These distinct designations highlight how the Spanish Crown viewed and administered these vast territories, which remained under their control until Mexico's independence.
