The first Europeans to actively settle California were Spaniards. In 1768 they began the famous mission system along the EI Camio Real, now U.S. Highway 101 and this was followed by the establishment of the fortified trading posts at San Francisco and Monterey and the first cities at Los Angeles and San Jose. Spain's king granted vast ranchos to favored civil and military officers. Many streets, towns and landmarks in the state still bear their names. the distinctive architectural style, the rambling, cool, thick walled adobe structure with its red tile roof, dates from the Spanish period.
In the early 1800's California became a self-governing province of newly independent Mexico. The ruling government attempted land reform, breaking up the hug Spanish ranchos and giving ownership to Mexican citizens. This together with other conflicts, led to war with Mexico.