California has been part of America for over 150
years, six times longer than it was part of Mexico.

It was not conquered by America; it rebelled on its
own, formed the California Republic, and subsequently
voted to join the Union as a full-fledged state,
bypassing any probational period as a territory.

Mexico's possession of California lasted from about
1821 to 1847, and was of doubtful legitimacy. For most
of that period the corrupt warlords of the Mexican
government were hostile or neglectful towards the
region. The Mexican government's one 'achievement' in
Upper California was to confiscate the Spanish
missions and distribute their lands among General
Santa Ana's political cronies. (They were later given
back to the friars--by Abraham Lincoln!)

California broke away from the Mexico City regime
because the Californios (descendants of Spanish
ranchers as well as more recent American settlers
and others of European background) had had enough of
General Santa Ana.

That is some interesting California history. Unfortunately, California IS history now, unless deportation of illegal invaders begins.

Not really Snouter. I can assure you that we're all alive and kicking out here. I wouldn't leave this state and live anywhere else in the US if someone paid me to do it. Actually I'd possibly go to Oregon, New York, or Washington state. They're almost as enlightened as we are! :D