Juan Cabrillo Explores California — Reading Comprehension

Premium Resource

Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.3-5
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 Cabrillo, the first European explorer to reach California. Students will learn about Cabrillo’s journey, his encounters with Native people, and his lasting impact on American history. The passage uses clear, simple language and a chronological narrative, meeting key literacy and history standards. Activities include a multiple-choice quiz, writing prompts, glossary, and timeline to deepen understanding. The resource also features a Spanish translation of the full passage and a relevant public domain image with caption and citation. This lesson aligns with C3 and Common Core standards, making it ideal for classroom use. Read aloud audio support helps all learners access the content. Teachers can use included graphic organizers and vocabulary activities to encourage critical thinking and analysis of cause-and-effect relationships in history. Perfect for teaching about European exploration and early California history.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"The landing of Cabrillo on California (detail from mural by Daniel Sayre Groesbeck at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse)" by Carol M. Highsmith / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Juan Cabrillo was the first European explorer to reach California. He was born in Spain and later worked for the country of Spain. In 1542, Cabrillo led a group of sailors from Mexico to explore new lands along the Pacific coast. His journey helped people in Europe learn about the land that would become California.

Cabrillo and his crew left the port of Navidad in Mexico in June 1542. They sailed in two ships, the San Salvador and the Victoria. Cabrillo wanted to find a new sea route to Asia. He also hoped to find gold and trade with Native people. The trip was long and dangerous. The sailors faced storms and rough seas. But Cabrillo stayed brave and kept leading his men.

On September 28, 1542, Cabrillo’s ships entered a large bay. Today, this place is known as San Diego Bay. Cabrillo named it "San Miguel." The sailors were the first Europeans to see this part of the coast. They met local Native Americans. Cabrillo traded with them and tried to learn about their lives. He wrote about the land and the people in his journals. Cabrillo said, "The land is rich, with many people living near the sea."

Cabrillo’s crew continued north along the coast. They stopped at several places, including the Channel Islands. Cabrillo was curious about the land and wanted to explore more. But the journey became even harder in the fall. The weather grew cold and windy. Cabrillo was hurt in an accident on the ship. He got sick and could not recover. Cabrillo died on January 3, 1543, on one of the Channel Islands.

Even after his death, Cabrillo’s journey was important. His maps and notes helped other explorers find their way. He opened the door for more people from Europe to come to California. Cabrillo’s courage and curiosity changed history. Today, people remember Cabrillo as a brave explorer who helped connect different worlds.

Interesting Fact: A big statue of Juan Cabrillo stands at the Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, honoring his journey and his role in California history.

Who was the first European in California?

Juan CabrilloChristopher ColumbusLewis and ClarkHernán Cortés

Where did Cabrillo's journey begin?

SpainMexicoCaliforniaAsia

What did Cabrillo hope to find?

A sea route to AsiaA new cityA mountainA lost ship

Why did Cabrillo's trip become harder?

Bad weather and injuryToo many shipsNo foodNo maps

How did Cabrillo help other explorers?

His maps and notesBy building shipsBy fighting piratesBy making gold

What did Cabrillo write about in his journal?

The land and peopleOnly his shipHis favorite foodsOther explorers