How did Christopher Columbus change California?

Answer 1

Christopher Columbus did not directly change California, as he never set foot on the West Coast of the United States. However, his voyages in 1492 opened the door for European exploration and colonization of the Americas, which eventually led to the Spanish colonization of California. This initiated significant cultural, demographic, and ecological changes in the region, including the establishment of missions and the introduction of new agricultural practices and livestock. Ultimately, Columbus's expeditions contributed to the broader European impact on California's indigenous populations and landscapes.