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Bear Flag Revolt — Reading Comprehension

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Standards

HSS 4.3.5
RH.6-8.1

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This engaging history reading passage covers the Bear Flag Revolt, a pivotal moment during Westward Expansion when American settlers in California declared independence from Mexico in 1846. Aligned with standards HSS 4.3.5 and RH.6-8.1, the passage details the events, key figures, and outcomes of the rebellion in Sonoma. Students will explore the causes and effects of the revolt and learn how it contributed to California becoming an American state. The resource includes a glossary, timeline, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, graphic organizers, and accessible Spanish translation. A read aloud audio option supports diverse learners. This comprehensive package helps students build historical understanding and literacy skills while meeting history and literacy standards.

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"Raising of the Bear Flag over Sonoma, June 14, 1846" by Charlies Pierce / Wikimedia Commons

The Bear Flag Revolt took place in June 1846 in the town of Sonoma, California. At that time, California was controlled by Mexico. Many American settlers had moved into California, hoping for new land and a better life. Tensions grew between the settlers and the Mexican government.

Some settlers felt that the Mexican leaders did not treat them fairly. They were worried that they might lose their land. In response, a small group of American settlers decided to take action. On June 14, 1846, about 30 settlers gathered in Sonoma. They captured the Mexican commander, General Mariano Vallejo, without a fight. The settlers then raised a homemade flag with a star and a grizzly bear on it. This became known as the Bear Flag.

The rebellion did not last long. The settlers declared California to be an independent republic. They chose William B. Ide as their leader. For a few weeks, the Bear Flag flew over Sonoma. People in other parts of California heard about the revolt. Some joined the cause, and others watched to see what would happen next.

Soon after, news arrived that the United States and Mexico had gone to war. U.S. Navy forces landed in California. The American flag replaced the Bear Flag in Sonoma. The Bear Flag Revolt had helped show that many settlers wanted California to be part of the United States.

After the revolt, California became a U.S. territory. Just a few years later, in 1850, California became the 31st state. The Bear Flag became a symbol of California’s history and is still seen on the state flag today.

The Bear Flag Revolt is remembered for the courage and determination shown by a small group of settlers. Their actions helped change the future of California.

Interesting Fact: The original Bear Flag was destroyed in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire.

When did the Bear Flag Revolt happen?

June 1846July 1776May 1848April 1850

Where did the revolt start?

SonomaLos AngelesSan FranciscoSacramento

Who was captured by the settlers?

General VallejoWilliam B. IdeJames MarshallJohn Sutter

Why did settlers start the revolt?

Unfair treatmentGold discoveryNew railroadDrought

What flag did the settlers raise?

Bear FlagAmerican FlagMexican FlagBritish Flag

What happened after the U.S. Navy arrived?