Why Spain Built the Missions — Reading Comprehension

Spain built missions in California to claim land and spread the Catholic faith. In the late 1700s, Spanish leaders wanted to protect their land from other countries. They also wanted to teach Native Americans about Spanish ways of life.

Spanish explorers first reached California in the 1760s. They saw wide open spaces and many Native American villages. The Spanish king sent priests and soldiers to build missions. The missions were centers for farming, learning, and worship.

Father Junípero Serra was the leader of the first missions. He helped build Mission San Diego in 1769. He said, "Always go forward and never turn back." This meant he wanted to keep building new missions and helping people.

Each mission had many buildings. There was a church, homes, workshops, and fields. Native Americans were invited to live at the missions. They learned to farm, make tools, and cook Spanish food. The priests taught them to read, write, and pray. Some Native Americans liked the new skills. Others missed their old ways and families.

The missions also had ranchos. Ranchos were large farms with cattle, sheep, and horses. Spanish settlers and Native Americans worked together. They grew wheat, corn, and beans. They raised animals for food and trade. Life was hard, but people helped each other.

The missions changed life in California. New towns grew around the missions. Roads connected the missions like a chain. This path was called El Camino Real, or "The Royal Road." People traveled between the missions to trade and visit friends.

Spain built 21 missions along the California coast. These missions protected Spanish land. They also spread the Spanish language and religion. The mission system ended in the 1830s, but many missions still stand today.

Interesting Fact: Some old mission bells can still be heard ringing in California towns today.

Why did Spain build missions?

Who led the first missions?

How many missions did Spain build in California?

What was a main goal of the missions?

What is El Camino Real?

Why did Native Americans live at missions?

Spain built missions in California. True or false?

What does 'ranchos' mean?