What was the Bear Flag Revolt?

The Bear Flag Revolt was a significant event in California's history that took place in 1846, characterized by American settlers rising in rebellion against Mexican rule. At that time, California was a part of Mexico, and the revolt was fueled by a combination of factors, including growing American settlement in the area and dissatisfaction with the Mexican government.

The American settlers, who identified themselves as "Californios," sought to assert their independence and create a California republic, which they symbolized with the raising of a flag featuring a grizzly bear—the emblem of strength and independence. This brief revolt was pivotal as it ultimately contributed to California becoming a territory of the United States later that year following the U.S.-Mexican War.

This context establishes the Bear Flag Revolt as a crucial moment of resistance against colonial governance, highlighting the aspirations of the settlers for self-determination during a time of significant political upheaval in the region.