Why were the California missions started?

The California missions were started by the catholic church, specifically catholic priests of the Franciscan order, to expand Christianity among the native Americans who were living in California at the time. They also introduced European fruits, vegetables, cattle, horses and technology there to prepare the land for colonisation. read more

(5) Indians were to be instructed in the Catholic faith. Had the provisions of this code been followed, the history of California might be different. The money to start the California missions came from a fund called the Pious Fund. This fund was begun by the Jesuit missionaries, who preceded the Franciscans in Mexico. read more

LIf you were wondering about the Spanish missions in California - and especially if you're looking for California Missions fact, this page was created just for you. How the California Missions Got Started. The Spanish missions in California got started because of the King of Spain. He wanted to create permanent settlements in the area of the New World. read more