How Explorers Changed California — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.3.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

About This Reader

This engaging history reading passage explores how European explorers changed California. Students will learn about key explorers like Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and Gaspar de Portolá, the role of Spanish missions, and the effects of European arrival on Native peoples. The passage is designed to build foundational literacy skills, using clear text structure and grade-appropriate vocabulary. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, a timeline, and graphic organizers to deepen understanding. The passage aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, and includes read aloud audio and a Spanish translation to support diverse learners. Using a chronological narrative, students discover themes of bravery, unity, and problem-solving as they analyze cause and effect relationships in early California history. Key vocabulary is highlighted and defined in a glossary. This resource is perfect for teaching U.S. history and colonial America, and helps students connect the past with the present.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Ruins Mission San Diego de Alcala San Diego Cal.
Source: Library of Congress

European explorers began coming to California in the 1500s. Their journeys changed life for everyone in the region. Before the explorers, California was home to many Native American tribes. These tribes had their own ways of living, trading, and taking care of the land.

In 1542, a Spanish explorer named Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed along the coast of California. He was searching for new lands for Spain. Cabrillo's ships landed in what is now San Diego Bay. He was the first European to see California’s coast. Cabrillo wrote in his journal, "The country is very fine and fertile." His maps helped other explorers find their way.

More explorers came after Cabrillo. In 1769, Gaspar de Portolá led a group over land. They traveled north from Mexico into California. Along with soldiers and priests, they built the first Spanish settlement at San Diego. This was the start of the Spanish mission system.

The Spanish built missions to teach Native Americans about Spanish ways and the Catholic faith. Missions were also farms and workshops. Native Americans worked there, growing food and learning new skills. Some Native Americans joined willingly, but others were forced. Life at the missions was very different from their old traditions.

The arrival of explorers brought big changes. New animals and plants were introduced. Horses, cattle, and wheat became common. European diseases also arrived and made many Native Americans sick. The explorers changed California’s land and its people forever.

After the missions were built, towns and farms grew. California became a part of Spain, and later Mexico. Years later, it would become a state in the United States.

Explorers showed bravery by traveling into the unknown. They solved problems and worked together. Their choices shaped the future of California.

Interesting Fact: California’s oldest mission, Mission San Diego de Alcalá, still stands today and welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Who was the first European to see California?

Juan Rodriguez CabrilloGaspar de PortoláChristopher ColumbusJohn Smith

What year did Cabrillo explore California?

1542176916201849

Who led the first Spanish land group?

Gaspar de PortoláJuan CabrilloFather SerraMiguel Hidalgo

Why did explorers build missions?

To teach and change Native AmericansTo find goldFor adventureTo escape Spain

What was one effect of explorers arriving?

New animals and plants arrivedCalifornia became colderNative Americans moved to EuropeNo changes happened