Jose Antonio Garcia (Californio bandit)

Jose Antonio Garcia (c. 1820 - 1857) was a Californio bandit who operated primarily in Southern California during the late 1840s and 1850s, following the American annexation of California. Born in Los Angeles, Garcia initially worked as a vaquero before turning to outlawry.

His criminal activities included cattle rustling, horse theft, and robbery, often targeting wealthy landowners and travelers along the routes connecting Los Angeles and San Diego. Garcia and his gang gained a reputation for daring raids and elusiveness, making them a significant challenge to law enforcement in the sparsely populated region.

Garcia's motivations were likely a combination of economic necessity and resistance to the changing social and political landscape brought about by American rule. He was seen by some Californios as a symbol of defiance against the perceived injustices of the new regime.

Despite numerous attempts to capture him, Garcia remained at large for several years. He was finally apprehended in 1857 near San Juan Capistrano, reportedly betrayed by an accomplice. Following a brief trial, he was convicted of robbery and sentenced to death. Jose Antonio Garcia was executed by hanging in Los Angeles later that year, marking the end of his career as a notorious bandit and a chapter in the history of California's transition from Mexican territory to American state.

His story has been romanticized and embellished over time, contributing to the lore of the Californio bandit figure in California history.