Abstract

ALTABLE, Francisco. The “True Fortress of New Spain”. Two Proposals for the Military Defense of the Novohispanic Californias. Estud. hist. novohisp [online]. 2019, n.61, pp.111-140.  Epub Dec 04, 2020. ISSN 2448-6922.  https://doi.org/10.22201/iih.24486922e.2019.61.68519.

The history of the Hispanic Californias is inserted in the long process of colonialist expansion of Spain. Over the years and centuries, the interest in consolidating its territorial domain was marked by the great myths surrounding its natural riches, its proximity to the fantastic Anian Strait and the trans-Pacific trade with East Asia. Hence, the military defense of its coasts acquired a capital importance with clear geopolitical, religious and economic implications. This article deals with two unknown strategic-military proposals, both in order to ensure Spanish sovereignty in that part of the world and the foundations of civil settlement.

Keywords : Californias; sailing; military defense; civil settlement; territorial sovereignty.