071: Tales of Mexican California Part 2: Antonio Coronel's Memoirs

Tales of Mexican California: Antonio Coronel's Memoirs - Part 2

To hear Part 1, go to Episode 065.

In this episode of the California Frontier Podcast, Damian Bacich continues exploring the memoirs of Antonio Franco Coronel. Coronel's account provides a riveting look into his experiences as a Superior Court Judge in Mexican California during the 1840s, a time marked by political instability and frequent criminal conduct by soldiers. 

The memoir sheds light on key historical moments, including the failed colonization efforts, the uprising against Governor Manuel Micheltorena, and the early signs of American annexation. Coronel's detailed recounting of robberies and kidnappings from New Mexico and his interactions with notable figures like Pio Pico, Jose Castro, and John Sutter offer valuable insights into a tumultuous period in California history.

00:00 Introduction to Antonio Franco Coronel's Memoirs

00:21 Arrival and Early Challenges in Alta California

01:36 Political Instability and New Governance

03:34 The Crimes of the Permanent California Battalion 

05:25 The Great Robbery at Don Vicente Sanchez's House

12:13 Banditry and Contraband on the Old Spanish Trail

13:18 The Case of the Stolen Turkeys

20:52 Rebellion Against Governor Micheltorena

25:17 Failed Negotiations and Micheltorena's Dilemma

30:16 Conclusion and Reflections on Coronel's Memoirs

Purchase a copy of Tales of Mexican California. 

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damian@californiafrontier.net