Baja California Sur: A Brief History of the Independent Period

Baja California Sur, located in the northwest region of Mexico, has a rich and complex history. The period of Mexican independence in the 19th century was marked by political and economic upheavals, conflicts with foreign powers, and the consolidation of traditional economic activities. This article will provide a brief overview of Baja California Sur's history during the independent period.

Mexican Independence and American Intervention

Mexican independence was proclaimed in the center of the country in 1821, but it wasn't until a year later that it was sworn in Loreto, Baja California Sur. In 1830, the capital was changed from Loreto to La Paz. The missionary regime disappeared around 1840, mostly due to the lack of population.

During the American intervention, the people of Baja California Sur defended their national sovereignty. On October 2, 1847, in Mulegé, the Mexican arms triumphed over those of the invaders. However, Mexico lost the war in Alta California.

Whale Slaughter and Filibuster William Walker

The second half of the 19th century saw the slaughter of whales by North American predators in Southern California waters. During those years, the filibuster William Walker, financed by businessmen from the United States, tried to establish the republic of Sonora and Baja California but was prevented by the people of Baja California and Sonora.

French Intervention and Porfiriato Period

Baja California Sur made its contribution of human resources against the French intervention and the second empire in favor of the legality represented by Don Benito Juárez. President Porfirio Díaz authorized the concession of large extensions of peninsular lands to businessmen from the United States, which were eventually recovered by the nation. In 1888, the territory of Baja California was divided into northern and southern districts.

During the entire Porfiriato period, there was peace, and the population grew notably. Communications with the exterior and education were unusually developed, mainly through cabotage navigation. The French company El Boleo began to work for the production of copper in Santa Rosalia, which was a significant economic boost for the region.

Traditional Economic Activities

During the 19th century, the population of Baja California Sur was variable and managed to consolidate traditional economic activities such as mining and cattle raising. Agriculture, fishing, and pearl fishing were also prevalent, with the latter experiencing moments of great boom that lasted until the early 1900s.

Conclusion

Baja California Sur's history during the independent period was marked by political and economic changes, foreign interventions, and the consolidation of traditional economic activities. The region's contributions to Mexican independence and the defense of national sovereignty are notable, as is the growth of the population and development of communication and education during the Porfiriato period.