Real Life Location of Salinas, California
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The Salinas River Valley in California is one of California’s largest tracts of fertile land. The Salinas River runs 90 miles from Atascedero to King City and has many off-shoots. The river experiences increased salinity in the winter, meriting its name originating from the Spanish word for “salt marsh or salt lake.” The valley, originally occupied by native “Salinians,” was colonized by Spanish catholic missionaries, then by Caucasians, and finally by Asians and Mexican seasonal workers.
Many times throughout history people have flocked to Salinas for its rich agricultural land. Initially, the migrants were pioneers and colonists. Later, hard-struck sharecroppers were attracted to Salinas with the promise of abundant work. During the time of the Great Depression the society was patriarchal, as reflected by thousands of men leading their families to Salinas for migrant farm work. Today, with the decline of patriarchy, both men and women flock from other countries to harvest crops in Salinas. Salinas supports the growth of numerous varieties of fruits and vegetables as well as wine grapes, cotton, and flowers due to its long growing season and mild climate. Salinas is called the “Salad Bowl of the World” due to the copious amounts of lettuce, broccoli, and peppers it produces: which goes into most of the salads consumed in the United States. The climate in Salinas varies from north to south. The northern end of the river has a milder climate, controlled by the wind and rain coming from the Pacific Ocean. The South, which is farther inland, experiences a varied climate with hot summers and cold winters. Salinas was and remains an agricultural powerhouse that is pivotal to America's agricultural economy. |
By: Jacob