Ridiculous History Podcast Summary
Episode: CLASSIC: California Was Named for a Fictional Island Ruled by a Black Amazon Queen
Release Date: November 9, 2024
Host: Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown
Producer: Casey Pegram

Introduction

In this classic episode of Ridiculous History, hosts Ben Bowlin and Noel Brown delve into the quirky and fascinating story behind California's name. Contrary to popular belief, California wasn't named after a natural feature or a prominent individual but was inspired by a fictional island ruled by an Amazonian queen from a 16th-century novel. This episode uncovers the layers of history, fiction, and cultural influences that culminated in the naming of one of the United States' most iconic states.

The Fictional Origins: Garci Rodriguez de Montevallo's Novel

Ben opens the discussion by highlighting that California's name has its roots in a work of fiction. The key source is Garci Rodriguez de Montevallo's novel, La Sergas de Esplandian ("The Exploits of Esplandian"), published in Seville in 1510. This romantic and swashbuckling epic introduces readers to an imaginary island named California, an allusion to a land of paradise inhabited solely by strong and beautiful black women—Amazons—with gold as their only metal.

Ben [10:16]: "On the right hand, from the Indies exists an island called California, very close to a side of the earthly paradise. And it was populated by black women without any man existing there."

Casey Pegram adds that the novel not only predates Cervantes' Don Quixote but was also referenced within it, indicating its popularity and influence during that era.

Cortés and the Misnaming of California

The episode transitions to Hernán Cortés, the famed conquistador responsible for the fall of the Aztec Empire. While leading an expedition along what is now the Baja California peninsula in the early 1530s, Cortés and his men mistakenly identified the peninsula as an island, a misconception influenced by the fictional account from Montevallo's novel.

Casey Pegram [12:07]: "He sent an expedition to the western coast of California. They thought it was an island and decided to call it California."

Though initially naming it Santa Cruz, Cortés and subsequent explorers began referring to the region as California, directly borrowing the name from the fictional paradise envisioned in Montevallo's work. This misnaming persisted until more accurate geographic knowledge clarified that California was a peninsula, not an island.

The Lost Connection Between Fiction and Reality

Interestingly, the link between Montevallo's fictional island and the real-life naming of California faded over time. By 1864, scholars like Edward Everett Hale rediscovered the connection while translating the novel for the Antiquarian Society. Hale pondered the origin of "Calafia," speculating whether it derived from terms related to Islamic leadership, reflecting Spain's historical interactions with Muslim culture.

Casey Pegram [15:21]: "The term could derive from a Spanish phrase, an old Spanish phrase, califa forna, an alteration of the old Latin term calida fornax, which means hot furnace. But we stick with the novel."

This rediscovery reignited interest in Montevallo's work and its inadvertent influence on one of America's most significant state names.

Cultural and Racial Implications of the Original Story

The episode doesn't shy away from addressing the problematic aspects of Montevallo's portrayal of Califia and her people. Casey Pegram references an article from Ms. Magazine's blog, highlighting how Califia was depicted with exaggerated physical traits and racial stereotypes, reflecting the colonial and prejudiced mindset of the time.

Casey Pegram [35:10]: "He describes Queen Califia as such as a queen. 'Queen of majestic proportions, more beautiful than all others, and in the very vigor of her womanhood. She was large and black as the ace of clubs.'"

Moreover, the narrative in Montevallo's novel evolves from a matriarchal society to one influenced heavily by Christian ideology, depicting Califia's conversion from paganism—a possible reflection of Spanish efforts to convert indigenous populations.

Alternative Theories on California's Naming

While Montevallo's novel remains the most intriguing explanation, the hosts explore other theories regarding the etymology of "California." One alternative suggests a connection to the 11th-century French epic poem, The Song of Roland, where the term "Californe" appears.

Casey Pegram [31:07]: "In the Song of Roland, the word Californe is mentioned, which some believe was a source for Montevallo's use."

Another hypothesis ties the name to the Latin term "calida fornax," meaning "hot furnace," potentially referencing California's warm climate.

However, Ben emphasizes that the fictional novel provides the most compelling and direct link between the name and its origin.

Modern Perspectives and Legacy

Fast forward to contemporary times, the legacy of Califia has seen a resurgence. Casey Pegram discusses Tamara L. Dickus's campaign to replace California's state seal, which currently features Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, with Califia. This movement aims to honor the state's unique and diverse heritage, reflecting a more inclusive and accurate representation of California's origins.

Casey Pegram [42:50]: "She is featured on the seal that was designed by a Confederate soldier who just kind of made the seal on his own. And this woman, Tamara El Dickus, mounted a campaign called 'Califia is Me' to replace Minerva with Califia."

Additionally, the podcast touches upon Disney's brief homage to Califia through a multimedia exhibition at California Adventure Park, where actress Whoopi Goldberg portrayed the fictional queen, integrating Califia’s narrative into popular culture.

Conclusion: Reflecting on California's Name and Identity

Ben and Noel wrap up the episode by reflecting on how California has evolved from its fictional naming origins to become one of the most progressive and economically significant states in the U.S. They acknowledge the state's complex history, rooted in both myth and reality, and appreciate how modern California distances itself from its racially charged beginnings to embrace a diverse and inclusive identity.

Ben [44:50]: "We feel pretty good about the name California overall, despite its dodgy beginnings. We hope this has been as fascinating and strange for you all as it is for us."

The hosts encourage listeners to engage with the podcast's community for more unusual historical insights and suggest future episodes to continue exploring the quirky histories of other U.S. states.

Notable Quotes

• Ben [10:16]: "On the right hand, from the Indies exists an island called California, very close to a side of the earthly paradise."

• Casey Pegram [15:21]: "The term could derive from a Spanish phrase, an old Spanish phrase, califa forna, an alteration of the old Latin term calida fornax, which means hot furnace."

• Casey Pegram [35:10]: "He describes Queen Califia as such as a queen. 'Queen of majestic proportions, more beautiful than all others, and in the very vigor of her womanhood. She was large and black as the ace of clubs.'"

Final Thoughts

This episode of Ridiculous History masterfully intertwines historical facts with intriguing fiction, revealing how literature can inadvertently shape real-world geography and cultural identities. By uncovering the shadowy origins of California's name, Ben, Noel, and producer Casey Pegram deliver a captivating narrative that underscores the often-ridiculous intersections of history and mythology.

Listeners gain a deeper appreciation for California's unique name and the complex tapestry of stories that have contributed to its present-day identity. This exploration not only enlightens but also entertains, staying true to the podcast's mission of uncovering the most bizarre and unexpected tales from human civilization.