Joaquin Murrieta (folk hero)

Joaquin Murrieta is a legendary figure in California's history, often portrayed as a folk hero and symbol of resistance for Native Americans and Mexicans during the mid-19th century. Born around 1829, he was a miner and rancher who became a bandit and outlaw after experiencing racial discrimination, loss of his family, and injustice during the Gold Rush era. Stories depict him as a Robin Hood-like figure who fought against oppressors. While some details are mythologized, Murrieta's story reflects themes of resilience, resistance, and social struggle in a tumultuous period of California's history.