The Grapes of Conquest

"The Grapes of Conquest" by Julia Ornelas-Higdon explores the often-overlooked history of California’s wine industry, tracing its origins from the Spanish missions through its development under Mexican, American, and Prohibition eras. The book highlights the diverse racial and ethnic groups—Native Californians, Mexican Californios, Chinese immigrants, and Euro-Americans—who built the industry amid social upheaval and conflict. By revealing its working-class, multiracial roots, the narrative challenges common perceptions and offers new insights into California’s historical landscape.