California Dreamin': Counting Cowboys Before the Gold Rush Hit
Ah, California in 1846... picturing rolling hills, a gentle sea breeze, and maybe a few cowboys moseying along. But before the Gold Rush turned the state into a frenzy of pickaxes and prospectors, how many folks were actually living the California dream? This, my friends, is where history gets a little fuzzy, but fear not, we'll sift through the dusty annals (or should I say Google searches?) for an answer.
The Great American Infiltration (Not Really That Dramatic)
California in 1846 was a sleepy Mexican territory, soon to be claimed by the United States. Back then, the population wasn't exactly bursting at the seams. Estimates suggest there were around 700 foreigners, with most of them being Americans. That's a far cry from the Hollywood westerns packed with cowboys, but hey, gotta start somewhere, right?
Hold on Now, Weren't There Native Americans?
Absolutely! California's indigenous population was by far the largest group at the time. Sadly, due to war and disease following European contact, their numbers had dwindled from historic highs. Estimates place the Native American population around 150,000 in 1846.
So, How Many Americans Were There Really?
Pinpointing an exact number is tricky. Census records back then weren't exactly what you'd call high-tech. But based on historical documents and educated guesses (don't worry, it's a fancy term for historians' best estimates), we can say there were probably around 700 Americans living in California in 1846. Not exactly a bustling metropolis, but a small community that was about to get a whole lot more interesting (and crowded) thanks to the shiny allure of gold.
Disclaimers Before You Pan for Answers
- History is a fickle beast: The exact number of Americans might be a bit higher or lower. Think of it as a fun historical estimate, not gospel.
- This ain't financial advice: Don't go digging up your backyard for a time machine based on these numbers.
- Embrace the mystery: Sometimes the beauty of history is the unknown. It leaves room for cowboys, dreamers, and a whole lot of Californian sunshine.
