The first governor of California was Peter Hardeman Burnett, who took office on December 20, 1849. Burnett was an American lawyer, businessman, and politician originally from Tennessee. His election as California’s first governor came during a unique period of rapid change for the region, just after California’s transition from Mexican to American control and in the midst of the Gold Rush.
Before becoming governor, Burnett had a varied career, including involvement in the Oregon Trail migration and serving as a judge in the Oregon Territory. After arriving in California, he quickly became engaged in politics, joining the push for California’s statehood. Following the drafting of California’s first state constitution in 1849, Burnett was elected as governor, representing the new state as it joined the Union in 1850 as part of the Compromise of 1850.
Governor Burnett faced many challenges, including establishing a state government and dealing with the rapid influx of people during the Gold Rush. His term, however, was controversial. He was a strong advocate for policies that many found divisive, such as his support for excluding African Americans and opposition to the presence of Native American populations in California. His administration struggled with the logistical and social pressures of rapid state growth, and his stance on social policies stirred significant opposition.
After only a little over a year in office, Burnett resigned from his position on January 9, 1851, and was succeeded by Lieutenant Governor John McDougal. Burnett’s short and turbulent tenure reflected the challenges of establishing governance in a newly admitted state. Today, his legacy is seen as part of the complex early history of California, marking the difficulties and controversies in transitioning from a territory to a fully integrated state of the Union.
