In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Father José María Suárez del Real, a Mexican Franciscan missionary in 1840s California. Through anecdotes and historical context, we explore his role during the mission secularization period, his challenges in Alta California, and his impact on the local communities and California history. The episode sheds light on a tumultuous era of California's past, often overlooked in simplified historical narratives. Tune in to better understand this critical period in California history.

00:00 Introduction to Father Real
01:02 Complexities of California History
02:27 Introducing Father Jose María Suárez del Real
04:05 Arrival of the Franciscan Missionaries
05:32 Challenges Faced by the Missionaries
08:58 Secularization of the Missions
11:38 Struggles and Adaptations
18:35 Conclusion and Further Insights
19:06 Support and Resources

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In Part 2 of our conversation, we delve into the 1775 sacking of Mission San Diego de Alcalá, a pivotal event in California's history. Richard's detailed research challenges mainstream historical accounts and highlights the specific involvement of the Tipai subgroup of the Kumeyaay people in the attack.

Richard discusses the complex motives behind the sacking, including religious conflicts, cultural grievances, and retribution for abuses by Spanish soldiers.

We also explore the nuanced aftermath of the event, the Spanish military's response, and the broader implications for Spanish-Kumeyaay relations.

This episode offers a deep dive into the anthropology and ethnohistory of the Kumeyaay, providing a richer understanding of their complex relationship with the Spanish, Mexican and U.S. governments.

00:00 Introduction to the 1775 Sacking of Mission San Diego
00:57 Excavation and Historical Research
02:32 Anthropological Insights and Clan Dynamics
04:46 Motives Behind the Attack
05:34 Aftermath and Spanish Military Response
11:56 Cultural and Religious Implications
31:27 Long-term Effects and Legacy
44:43 Modern Reflections and Career Advice

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damian@californiafrontier.net

In Part 1 of this interview, I speak with archeologist Richard Carrico, a prominent expert on the Native peoples of California, especially those in the San Diego area. Carrico shares his intriguing journey into archaeology, beginning with his service in the U.S. Army and a twist of fate that led him to discover his passion for archaeological studies.

Richard details his educational path and various pivotal excavations, including working on the Presidio of San Diego and the Bancroft Ranch House. Carrico emphasizes the importance of understanding Native cultures, highlighting his ethnographic studies and collaboration with the Kumeyaay people of Southern California.

This episode is a rich exploration of historical archaeology and the stories that shape our understanding of Native Californian history.

Richard's book: Strangers in a Stolen Land: Indians of San Diego County from Prehistory to the New Deal

00:29 Introduction to Richard Carrico
01:18 Richard's Journey into Archaeology
02:35 Early Career and Mentorship
05:01 Professional Growth and Historic Archaeology
07:25 Transition to Commercial Archaeology
09:45 Balancing Academic and Commercial Work
17:59 Focus on Kumeyaay People and Ethnography
26:02 Challenges and Diplomatic Skills

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Contact:
damian@californiafrontier.net