The Mission San Gabriel - Research Paper Example

The particular settlement where the mission stands was erected around 1770 by the early Spaniards and was possibly named after the Angel Gabriel. Historical sources indicate that building was designed by Antonio Cruzado who was a Father from Spain (Baer 47). He cleverly designed the structure giving it a strong architectural and captive influence. With long narrow windows and a peculiar capped buttress, the building is reminiscent of several others unique only to the state of California. Much of the original roof of the structure was destroyed in 1894 by an earthquake which ravaged the area.

A replacement was further damaged in 1812 and was later replaced in 1886. Nevertheless much of the original composition of the structure still stands strong signifying a rich source of history. The establishment of the mission in that particular locality radically transformed the manner of life around. The hostile Indians completely took charge and dominated the area. Up to 1822, it is estimated that over 6800 natives had been baptized of whom 2400 was children. In the neighborhoods of this church, the majority of the population was the Indians who mostly belonged to the Shoshonean family.

There were also other people especially the neophytes who came from further beyond. Most important, however, is the manner in which the mission has always defined the history and manner of life in that particular region. It has to be remembered that the major objective of the missions established at that time was to propagate a culture of self-sufficiency and social collectiveness amongst the people. Through farming, the missions managed to produce entirely everything that was necessary in the localities.

Much of that effort was always successful to the extent that by 1810, the Indians ware able to produce sufficient food to sustain the whole military and government of California. Agriculture had suddenly taken root in the region as the most important economic activity. The rich information availed by delving into the missions’ history is very fundamental in drawing very important conclusions and learning much about the Chicano history. Very striking characteristics are reminicesent in the Spaniards who came to the region in the early days and made settlements.

Their mannerisms and ways of life have always stood and helped define their history and character. One can gradually realize the causes of the growing unrest that was evidenced across the Mexican-American population in the country. These people are driven by the power of their collective awareness and through mass action, agitate for fundamental liberties. In such a case, the emergence and the progress of the Chicano movement cannot be overemphasized. Sure enough, most of the challenges that led to this movement have not been addressed even in the present American situation.

Very high school drop-out rates are still a daily norm in the California region. The lack of Mexican-American teachers in the institutions is still an issue that has not yet been addressed. Paradoxically, looking back into the early days, we realize that many dreams have been shattered in the face of these emerging realities. The very farms that had their origins in the mission days became the hotbeds of controversy as farmers and university students teamed together and went to the streets in protest.

The whole issue was about the aspiration of social betterment