California’s Path to Statehood (1849–1850)

1. Constitutional Convention (Sept 1849) – Monterey; drafted constitution banning slavery.
2. Popular Ratification (Nov 13, 1849) – Overwhelming approval.
3. First Legislature (Dec 15, 1849) – Convened in San Jose (temp. capital).
4. Application to Congress (Dec 20, 1849) – Resolutions + constitution sent.
5. Compromise of 1850 – Resolved slave/free balance; CA admitted as free state.

Admission: September 9, 1850 – 31st state, signed by President Fillmore.