Why Is It Called Baja California If It Is In Mexico

People are currently reading this guide.

Baja California: A Name That's All About That Upper/Lower Drama

So, you're scratching your head, aren't you? Baja California, you're thinking, that sounds like it should be somewhere near California, right? Well, you're not wrong. But it's also in Mexico. How does that work? Let's dive into this geographical head-scratcher.

Why Is It Called Baja California If It Is In Mexico
Why Is It Called Baja California If It Is In Mexico

A Tale of Two Californias

Once upon a time, there was a place called California. Just one. And it was huge. Like, really huge. Think California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming all rolled into one. But then, someone (probably a really tall person with a penchant for geography) decided it was too big and split it in two.

The article you are reading
InsightDetails
TitleWhy Is It Called Baja California If It Is In Mexico
Word Count551
Content QualityIn-Depth
Reading Time3 min
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.Help reference icon

We got the upper part, which, unsurprisingly, became known as Alta California. And then there was the lower part, which, in a moment of pure originality, was dubbed Baja California.

QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.Help reference icon

Alta California eventually became the U.S. state we all know and love (or love to hate, depending on your traffic experiences). And Baja California? Well, it stuck around with Mexico.

Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.Help reference icon
Why Is It Called Baja California If It Is In Mexico Image 2

It's All About Perspective

Think of it like this: you've got a really tall building. The top floors are the penthouse, the ultimate luxury. That's like Alta California. Then you've got the lower floors, where normal people live. That's Baja California. Except, instead of penthouses and apartments, you've got deserts, beaches, and tequila.

Content Highlights
Factor Details
Related Posts Linked22
Reference and Sources5
Video Embeds3
Reading LevelEasy
Content Type Guide
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.Help reference icon

So, the next time someone asks you why Baja California is in Mexico, you can confidently reply, "Well, it used to be part of a much larger California, but then there was a great California divide, and now it's just Mexico's cooler little brother."

How to Become a Baja California Expert

  • How to pronounce Baja California: It's "BAH-ha kah-lee-FOR-nee-ah."
  • How to differentiate between Baja California and Baja California Sur: Baja California is the northern part, while Baja California Sur is the southern part of the peninsula.
  • How to plan a trip to Baja California: Focus on beaches, seafood, and adventure activities.
  • How to appreciate the irony of it all: Just laugh and enjoy the geographical quirkiness.
  • How to impress your friends with your newfound knowledge: Drop this post into any conversation about Mexico or California.
Why Is It Called Baja California If It Is In Mexico Image 3
Quick References
TitleDescription
ca.govhttps://www.caenergycommission.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.calwaterboards.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.sos.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.calhr.ca.gov
ca.govhttps://www.cdph.ca.gov

hows.tech

You have our undying gratitude for your visit!