This exciting book provides a sweeping but in-depth history of the state of California, from pre-colonial days to the present, from Spanish missions and the Gold Rush to Silicon Valley and Governor Schwarzenegger, including geography, people, industries, key public figures and historical events, noteworthy places and enterprises, and government structure. Includes a complete timeline of state/colonial history, informative fact sheet, and fascinating and colorful sidebars that connect the state''s vivid and intriguing past with its vibrant present.