Spanish Explorer (Conquistador) Hernando "Hernan" Cortez (1485-1587) whose expedition caused the fall of the Aztec empire led a crew to North-Western Mexico along the pacific coast and what is presently known as Baja, California. It is alleged that upon their arrival Cortez and his militia (a great deal of African Ancestry) found pearls; Cortez announced they'd arrived in Califia's land. They applied the name on maps as exploration continued.
The origin of California's name is said to begin in a story written by a Castilian author
Garci "Ordonez" Rodriguez de Montalva (1450-1504) "Las sergas de Esplandian" which translates to "The Exploits of Esplandian" Published in 1510. In the novel, Montalvo describes California as an island of paradise, located at the right hand of the West Indies. The island was ruled by a Black queen named Califia, whose land was covered in pearls and gold.
Cortez was infatuated with Montalva's story. California allegedly translates to "land of the Black woman" or "the land where Black women live". Within Califia's mythical legacy, it is stated that she was a Moorish, Amazonian Queen. In the film 'Golden Dreams' the history of California is depicted including the story of Queen Califia, re-enacted by Whoopi Goldberg.
By the 1700s the Spanish influence on the California coast would eventually impact the history and origin of the naming of California. Although the depictions of Califia (hair & hue) have been altered depending on the source. You can find authentic images of Califia's influence in California's state capital building on the 4th Floor in a mural titled: 'The Naming of California' and in San Francisco at the Room of the Dons Hotel.
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