List of pre-statehood mayors of Los Angeles facts for kids

This article is a list of the leaders of Los Angeles from 1781 to 1850. These leaders were called alcaldes or mayors. They served during the time when California was under Spanish rule, then Mexican rule, and finally, the early American period, before California became a state.

Leaders During Spanish Rule (1781–1821)

During this time, Los Angeles was known as El Pueblo de la Reina de los Ángeles. It was part of a larger Spanish territory called Las Californias, which later became Alta California. These territories were part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain, a huge area controlled by Spain.

The leader was called an Alcalde. An Alcalde was like a mayor and a judge all in one. They were elected every year and could not be re-elected for two years after their term. Records from this time are not always complete, so some dates are a bit uncertain.

Leaders During Mexican Rule (1822–1848)

After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Los Angeles became part of the Alta California territory of Independent Mexico. The leaders were still called Alcaldes.

Leaders During Early American Control (1848–1850)

After the Mexican-American War, California became a territory of the United States. Los Angeles was then led by a "Mayor." This period lasted until California officially became a U.S. state in 1850.

See also

In Spanish: Anexo:Alcaldes de Los Ángeles para niños