Ridiculous History
CLASSIC: California Was Named for a Fictional Island Ruled by a Black Amazon Queen
Nov 9, 2024
Discover the quirky origins of California’s name, rooted in a fanciful island ruled by a Black Amazon queen. The hosts reveal how 16th-century literature and exploration shaped early perceptions of the state. From Cortez's expeditions to cultural influences, the narrative intertwines myth and history. Delve into the legacy of Queen Calafia and her impact on California's identity, including current movements to change the state seal. With humor and insight, the tale blends California's lively culture with its outrageous past.
32:09
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Quick takeaways
- California's name originates from a fictional 16th-century novel depicting a gold-rich island ruled by a Black queen, significantly influencing explorers' perceptions.
- The push for recognizing Queen Calafia in California's cultural representation reflects ongoing efforts to revise and enhance the state's historical narratives.
Deep dives
The Origins of California's Name
The name California has its roots in fiction, specifically from a novel titled 'La Sergas de Esplandeon' written by Garci Rodriguez de Montalvo in the early 16th century. This story described an imaginary island called California, home to strong Amazons ruled by a queen named Calafia. The narrative, which painted a vivid picture of a land rich in gold and populated solely by women, captured the imagination of Spanish explorers like Hernán Cortés. When they encountered what is now known as Baja California, they mistakenly assumed it was an island and began using the name California, a reflection of the novel's influence on their perceptions and explorations.
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