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California's geography is largely defined by its central feature—the Central Valley, a huge, fertile valley between the coastal mountain ranges and the Sierra Nevada.
- Amanda Briney
- California was one of the most diverse regions for Indigenous peoples in the United States with around 70 independent communities prior to the arrival of persons from other areas in the 1500s.
- Throughout the rest of the 1500s, the Spanish explored California's coast and eventually established 21 missions in what was known as Alta California.
- In 1846, the Mexican-American War broke out and following the end of the war, Alta California became a U.S. territory. By the 1850s, California had a large population as a result of the Gold Rush and on September 9, 1850, California was admitted into the United States.
- Today, California is the most populous state in the U.S. For reference, California's population is over 39 million people, making it roughly the same as the entire country of Canada.
Learn about the history, landforms, wildlife, and natural resources of the 31st state. See facts, photos, and fun stuff about California's diverse regions, from the Pacific coast to the Mojave Desert.
Explore the physical features, regions, and natural wonders of California, the most biodiverse state in the country. Discover the mountains, valleys, deserts, coastline, and more that make California a visual marvel.