- Conversion to Christianity: The primary goal of the missions was to convert Native Americans to Catholicism. Although the methods of conversion were controversial and often coercive, it did bring about a significant shift in religious beliefs among the indigenous population of California.
- Education and Technology Sharing: The missions introduced European education, agriculture, and technology to the Native Americans. The friars taught them about new crops such as wheat, grapes, and citrus fruits, as well as livestock and farming techniques. Native Americans also learned about spinning, weaving, carpentry, and other practical skills.
- Economic Development: The missions served as centers of economic activity. They produced a surplus of agricultural goods, which were traded with other Spanish colonies and foreign ships that came to California for supplies. This trade helped boost the local economy and contributed to the growth of commercial agriculture in the region.
- Preservation of Native American Languages and Culture: While the mission system did suppress many aspects of Native American culture, it also helped preserve some aspects, including languages, music, and art. The friars documented Native American languages and customs, and in some cases, they even promoted the use of indigenous languages in religious instruction.
- Establishment of European Settlements: The missions played a role in the initial colonization of California by Europeans. They served as bases from which Spanish explorers, soldiers, and settlers ventured further into the territory, and they provided support for the establishment of new settlements and presidios (military forts).
