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California (The Golden State)
written by
Al Rosson
California was sighted by Spanish navigator Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in 1542, its first Spanish mission (at San Diego ) was not established until 1769. California became a U.S. territory in 1847 when Mexico surrendered it to John C. Frémont. On Jan. 24, 1848 , James W. Marshall discovered gold at Sutter's Mill,
starting the California Gold Rush and bringing settlers to the state in large numbers. By 1964, California had surpassed New York to become the most populous state. One reason for this may be that more immigrants settle in California than any other state—more than one-third of the nation's total in1994. Asians and Pacific Islanders led the influx.
Leading industries include agriculture, manufacturing (transportation equipment, machinery, and electronic equipment), biotechnology, aerospace-defense, and tourism. Principal natural resources include timber, petroleum, cement, and natural gas.
Death Valley , in the southeast, is 282 ft below sea level, the lowest point in the nation. Mt. Whitney (14,491 ft) is the highest point in the contiguous 48 states. Lassen Peak is one of two active U.S. volcanoes outside of Alaska and Hawaii ; its last eruptions were recorded in 1917.
Other points of interest include Yosemite National Park, Disneyland, Hollywood, the Golden Gate Bridge, Sequoia National Park, San Simeon State Park, and Point Reyes National Seashore.
California State Parks make up the most diverse natural and cultural park system in the nation. There are over 1.3 million acres of land to hike or bike through, pristine coastline to surf, ghost towns to tour, and ancient redwood groves to admire and treasure.
These are the places that speak to the soul. You'll find something extraordinary here – you'll find yourself here. And when you do, remember that our parks need you as much as you need them. 
There are 278 California State Parks. Each one is a vital connecting point to the Golden State's nature, culture, and history. From the reflecting pools of Hearst Castle to the tide pools of Año Nuevo, from desert blooms to towering redwoods, you can find a place to relax or renew.
Our State Parks now welcome over 80 million visitors annually. The challenge of managing the state's diverse and sometimes fragile ecosystems has grown with the popularity of the parks. Enjoy the benefits California State Parks have to offer.
California the true land of opportunity!
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