When you’re in a place of natural silence, you’re not alone, and you can feel it. Whether it’s birdcalls from miles away or the proximity of a giant tree whose warm tones you can feel, there’s a presence, It’s a quieting experience.
–Gordon Hempton, in August 2023 Sun Magazine
La República de California was an unrecognized breakaway state from Mexico, that for 25 days in 1846 militarily controlled an area north of San Francisco.
Mexican officials had been concerned about a coming war with the United States and the growing influx of Americans into California. The rebellion was covertly encouraged by US Army Captain John Frémont.
“California Republic” appeared only on the flag the insurgents raised in Sonoma. It indicated their aspiration of forming a republican government under their control.
The Bear Flag Revolt and whatever remained of the “California Republic” ceased to exist on July 9 when US Navy Lieutenant Joseph Revere raised the United States flag in front of the Sonoma Barracks and sent a second flag to be raised at Sutter’s Fort.
