Black Robes in Lower California

The Jesuit missions of Lower California (1697–1768) represent a pivotal chapter in the cultural and spiritual history of the Americas. Black Robes in Lower California brings together a detailed, scholarly exploration of this seventy-year mission period, addressing both its successes and controversies. Drawing from an extensive array of primary documents—many newly available from archives in Spain, Mexico, and the United States—the book provides a comprehensive view of the Jesuits’ efforts to establish Christian communities among the indigenous populations of Baja California. This study delves into the complex interplay of missionary fervor, cultural exchange, and the unintended consequences of European colonization, such as the decimation of indigenous populations due to disease and cultural disruption. With insights from modern historians and critics, the book reframes interpretations of Jesuit activities, offering a balanced perspective on their spiritual goals and the historical context in which they operated. Authoritative and meticulously researched, the volume acknowledges the diverse perspectives brought to bear on missionary history—from anthropological and biological critiques of cultural disruption to the theological convictions that shaped missionary endeavors. The narrative highlights the Jesuits’ commitment to spiritual salvation and social advancement, detailing how they raised living standards, introduced agricultural techniques, and sought to alleviate suffering through education and Christian faith. At the same time, it confronts the broader implications of European influence on indigenous societies, recognizing the debates that persist among historians, scientists, and theologians. Enhanced by a wealth of archival material and the guidance of eminent scholars, Black Robes in Lower California stands as a vital resource for understanding the Jesuit legacy and its lasting impact on the history of the Americas. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1968.