Bear Flag Revolt

Definition

The Bear Flag Revolt was a short-lived rebellion that took place in June 1846, when American settlers in California rebelled against Mexican rule and declared California an independent republic. This revolt was fueled by the spirit of Manifest Destiny, which promoted the belief that the United States was destined to expand across the continent. The Bear Flag Revolt played a significant role in the lead-up to the Mexican-American War, as it set the stage for U.S. military intervention and annexation of California.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Bear Flag Revolt was initiated by a group of American settlers known as 'Bear Flaggers' who were unhappy with Mexican governance and sought independence.
2. The revolt's leaders raised a flag featuring a grizzly bear and a red star, symbolizing their desire for independence and connection to the ideals of freedom.
3. The revolt resulted in the establishment of the California Republic on June 14, 1846, but it lasted only until July 9, 1846, when U.S. military forces took control.
4. The Bear Flag Revolt directly contributed to the outbreak of the Mexican-American War, as it provided a pretext for U.S. military intervention in California.
5. The events of the Bear Flag Revolt are commemorated annually in California, highlighting its significance in the state's history and U.S. expansionism.

Review Questions

• How did the Bear Flag Revolt reflect the attitudes of American settlers towards Mexican rule in California?
  • The Bear Flag Revolt reflected a growing dissatisfaction among American settlers with Mexican governance, particularly regarding issues like land rights and political representation. Many settlers believed that they could govern themselves more effectively and were motivated by the ideals of Manifest Destiny, which encouraged expansion into territories believed to be rightfully American. This revolt demonstrated a shift in attitudes where settlers felt entitled to take control over Californian land and assert their independence.
• Analyze how the Bear Flag Revolt served as a catalyst for the subsequent Mexican-American War.
  • The Bear Flag Revolt served as a catalyst for the Mexican-American War by creating a situation that justified U.S. military intervention in California. The rebellion highlighted tensions between American settlers and Mexican authorities, leading to increased calls for annexation. Following the revolt, U.S. troops were deployed to California under President Polk's orders, further escalating conflicts that had already begun due to territorial disputes. This connection illustrates how local insurrections can influence national policies and lead to larger conflicts.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the Bear Flag Revolt on California's development and its relationship with the United States.
  • The long-term consequences of the Bear Flag Revolt significantly shaped California's development and its relationship with the United States. The revolt not only facilitated California's eventual incorporation into the U.S. following the Mexican-American War but also established a narrative of American exceptionalism and entitlement over western lands. As California grew rapidly after becoming a state in 1850, its cultural identity was influenced by this early rebellion, which became symbolic of pioneer spirit and independence. This legacy continues to be celebrated today, reflecting ongoing themes of self-determination and national expansion.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

The belief in the 19th century that American settlers were destined to expand across North America, often justifying territorial expansion.

Mexican-American War:

A conflict between the United States and Mexico from 1846 to 1848, largely driven by U.S. territorial ambitions and the desire for land.

California Republic: A short-lived state established by American settlers during the Bear Flag Revolt, lasting only 25 days before being incorporated into the U.S.