Life in a California Mission Chapter 2

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Life in A California Mission Monterey in 1786 The Journals of Jean François de La Perouse Chapter 2 In this chapter, La Perouse explained into depth about the lifestyle of the Indians, where they lived, what they ate, how they dressed, how they were treated, etc. The Indian village was populated with about 50 huts, consisting of about 740 Indians living here; including both sexes, with their children. I was intrigued with the simplicity of the creation of these huts, but convenient at the same time. Their huts sheltered them & on great weathers, they were able to uncover their huts. These Indians lived busy lives; generally, their day consisted about 7 hours of labor and 2 hours would be left for prayer. The Indians were expected to become Christians, and inform against their own beliefs. On special occasions, their hours would be dedicated to mainly praying. For those who didn’t follow this, would be severely punished. If one were rebelling against a padre, they would be put into stocks, manacles, and even whipped. Some would run off to reside with their relations, but they would be given a few chances by demanding to return. If they still do not return after, they would be seized and by punished with lashes. Those who did stay in their village would continue to live their busy days at the village. They would wake up early and get straight to their prayers and mass. While this is happening, boilers would be lit for the cooking of their soup, mainly atole. Even the children are fed, and mainly given the thicker portion of the soup, especially those who have said that their catechism were the greatest. Men had their own routines, but women also played a part to make everyday life more efficient. They didn’t have jobs, but be at home, watch over the children, grind corn, and spin wool to manufacture clothing. These women did not have tools to really

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