Pío Pico
PÍO PICO, Mexican California's most prominent citizen was of African, Spanish and Native American decent. He was the last governor of Alta California before the U.S.-Mexican War.
In Mexican California, behavior, dress, language and religion were more important than skin color in determining status. After the U.S. takeover, people of color lost status, wealth and influence, including the Peralta and other Spanish-speaking citizens.
In Mexican California, behavior, dress, language and religion were more important than skin color in determining status. After the U.S. takeover, people of color lost status, wealth and influence, including the Peralta and other Spanish-speaking citizens.
