Juan Bautista de Anza

Juan Bautista de Anza was a Spanish explorer and military leader in the 18th century. He is best known for leading expeditions from Mexico into what is now California, establishing overland routes for settlers and missionaries. His journeys helped expand Spanish influence and settlement in the southwestern United States, including the founding of San Francisco’s Presidio and Mission. Anza's explorations were significant in shaping California’s early history, as they facilitated the mapping, settlement, and development of Spanish colonies in the region.