Chili Gulch
Chili Gulch is registered as California Historical Landmark #265.
Chilean War
In December 1849, American miners in Calaveras County drew up a local mining code that called for all foreign miners to leave the country within 15 days, leading to much protest and violence. The so-called "Chilean War" resulted in several deaths and the expulsion of Chilean miners from their claims. Accounts vary widely about the details, at least 2 men were killed in shootouts and others wounded. A trial at Mokelumne Hill found three Chileans guilty of murder and sentenced to death, five received 50 lashes and head shavings and three received 30 lashes and had their ears cropped.
Some source include mention of Joaquin Murrieta's involvement on the side of the Chileans. The events in Calaveras County projected the Murietta legend into the politics of Chile where anti-American politicians used it to garner votes.
References
- ^ "Chili Gulch". Office of Historic Preservation, California State Parks. Retrieved 2012-10-06.
- ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Chili Gulch
- ^ McGrath, Roger D. (2003). Burns, John F. (ed.). Taming the Elephant: Politics, Government, and Law in Pioneer California. California Historical Society. p. 37.
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