Who was the first governor of California?

Peter Burnett served as the first governor of California, taking office in 1849 shortly after California became a state. His administration marked a pivotal time during the post-Gold Rush era when the population was rapidly increasing, and the state's governance was in its formative stages. Burnett's tenure was characterized by the challenges of establishing a stable government, addressing issues related to immigration, and navigating the burgeoning economy created by the discovery of gold. His role set important precedents for the future governance of California.

The other individuals listed—Ronald Reagan, Jerry Brown, and Gavin Newsom—served as governors in later years, with Reagan being a prominent figure in California politics in the 1960s and 70s, and both Brown and Newsom serving in the 21st century with significant impact on modern California policies.