Thrown Among Strangers: The Making of Mexican Culture in Frontier California

Rating:
Summary: A thourough analysis of the founding of California
Review: In light of the divisive politics in California during the 1990s, it is a clear dose of reality to read Douglas Monroy's Thrown Among Strangers. I read this for a history of Los Angeles class at UCLA, and I can't recommend it enough. For anyone who wants to learn about the early history of Los Angeles and how far back the racial politics and injustice of California go back, look no further. This isn't light reading, however. Monroy writes from historical, anthropological, psychological, and cultural perspectives on the conquering of California--first by Spanish missionaries, then Mexican and American rancheros, and finally, the businessman. Victims to all of these are the native Indians of California, who Monroy lends a voice to and remembers. Monroy is angry, and you will be too after finishing this book.