By the early 20th century, San Francisco had a higher foreign-born population than any other US city. The 1920s saw an influx of Mexican immigrants into California's fields. By the late 20th century, over 80 languages were spoken by students in the Los Angeles school district, reflecting the state's diversity. However, tensions rose as seen in the 1965 Watts riots in LA and anti-immigration measures like Proposition 187 in 1994, reflecting concerns over illegal immigration and preferences.

1. CALIFORNIA: A HISTORY Ecumenopolis

3. The1920’s witnessed an influx of Mexicans into the fields of California.

4. By the end of the 20th century, eighty plus languages were spoken by children in the Los Angeles Unified School District.

5. On August 11, 1965, riots broke out in the Watts district of Los Angeles.

7. In 1992, presidential primary Pat Buchanan advocated the digging of an impassible trench along the border.

8. On the November 1994 ballot, Proposition 187 called for the withdrawal of all public support, with the exception of emergency medical services for undocumented Californians.

9. On July 20, 1995, race and gender based preferences at UC were ended by a vote of 14 to 10.