Juan Bautista de Anza's Expedition — Reading Comprehension

Premium Resource

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 U.S. history reading passage introduces students to Juan Bautista de Anza and his historic expedition from Mexico to California in the late 1700s. Students will learn how Anza led families and soldiers through tough lands to help Spanish settlers reach new homes in San Francisco. The passage highlights bravery, teamwork, and the importance of exploration using simple language and clear cause-and-effect structure. Activities include a glossary, multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, timeline, and graphic organizer. The content aligns with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, supporting literacy and historical thinking skills. A Spanish translation and read aloud audio are included, making this resource accessible for diverse learners. Keywords include Spanish colonization, expeditions, California, colonial America, and U.S. history.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Juan Bautista de Anza was a Spanish leader who helped shape the history of the United States. In 1775, Anza led a group of families, soldiers, and workers on a tough journey from Mexico to California. Their goal was to build a new settlement near San Francisco Bay. This journey was called the Anza Expedition.

The trip was not easy. Anza and his group had to travel over mountains, deserts, and rivers. They faced hot days, cold nights, and little water. Some people became sick. Others felt afraid. But Anza was brave and strong. He kept the group moving with hope and care. He wrote, "We must not give up, even when the road is hard."

Each day, Anza made careful plans. He chose safe places to rest. He made sure everyone had food and water. The group helped each other. They shared what they had and worked together. When they saw Native American villages, Anza tried to show respect and kindness. He wanted peace, not fighting.

After many months, the group reached California in 1776. They found the land near San Francisco Bay. There, they started a new settlement called the Presidio of San Francisco. This new home helped Spain keep control of California. It also led to the growth of cities in the West.

The Anza Expedition was important. It showed how courage and teamwork can help people reach their goals. The families and soldiers worked together and did not give up. Because of their journey, more people came to live in California. Today, we remember Juan Bautista de Anza as a leader who helped change American history.

Expedition means a long and carefully planned journey. Settlement is a place where people build homes and live together. Presidio is a Spanish word for a fort that protects a town.

Interesting Fact: Juan Bautista de Anza's route became the famous Anza Trail, which people can still visit and hike today!

Who led the expedition to California?

Juan Bautista de AnzaGeorge WashingtonLewis and ClarkChristopher Columbus

When did the expedition begin?

1775149218041620

What was the name of the new settlement?

Presidio of San FranciscoMission San DiegoSanta FePlymouth Colony

Why did Anza and his group travel?

To build a settlementTo find goldTo fight a warTo trade goods

How did Anza help his group?

Made plans and kept hopeTraveled aloneBuilt shipsSent letters

What was an effect of the expedition?