In 1786, a French explorer, Jean-Francois de La Perouse, and his expedition landed in Monterey, California to witness the mission system at work. It had been over fifteen years since the Franciscan Monks first established their mission in Monterey, but they lacked the economic success needed to for the mission to flourish. However, in the essence of the Enlightenment; he determines that, in the otherwise economically retarded land, California has the potential to become a successful settlement.
             The fertile land paired with the abundance of plants and animals seems to be a perfect combination for economic success; however, California's economics failed to reap the rewards of this rich land. One reason behind this is the missionaries' immense dedication to Christianization. La Perouse declares that "the piety of the Spaniards has hitherto maintained these missions and presidios at a great expense, with the sole view of converting and civilizing the Indians" (63). This dedication blinded them from the wealth that surrounded them. Had they not been preoccupied, they may have realized that the "China trade could furnish a demand for thirty thousand [sea otter] skins, two or three settlements to the north of San Francisco would soon procure them for the commerce of his nation" (100). With the Manila Galleon frequenting the coast and the number of Indian workers, the settlers and missionaries of California could have utilized this opportunity to begin a promising trade with China. Trade, and, thus, economics, may have grown if the settlers took advantage of trade with China. However, the "missionaries have hitherto been more attentive to their heavenly than their earthly concerns, and have greatly neglected the introduction of the most common arts" (87). The settlers had the opportunity utilize arts in the trade market with China, but failed to see yet another po
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