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California Republic (Bear Flag Revolt)

1846 · 19th Century

Politics

The California Republic, also known as the Bear Flag Republic, was an unrecognized breakaway state from Mexico that lasted for 25 days in June-July 1846. Beginning with the capture of Sonoma on June 14, 1846, American settlers raised the Bear Flag and declared California independent. The revolt ended on July 9 when U.S. forces raised the American flag as part of the Mexican-American War.

Key Figures

William B. IdeEzekiel MerrittJohn C. FrémontMariano Guadalupe Vallejo

Locations

SonomaSonoma Barracks

Topics

Bear Flag RepublicSonoma CountyMexican-American WarCalifornia Republic

Connected Events — 2 Connections

Formally transferred California from Mexico to United States, legitimizing what the Bear Flag Republic had attempted Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

Feb 2, 1848 · Politics · 19th Century

Demonstrated American territorial expansion doctrine that emboldened settlers to claim California through similar means Louisiana Purchase

1803 · Politics · 19th Century

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