The first people to live in the area around Chula Vista were the Native American, Yuman-speaking peoples, around 3000 B.C.E. The land was claimed by the Spanish in 1542 in a small series of explorations. Chula Vista became part of Rancho del Ray in a Spanish land grant in 1795, but became Rancho del la Nation in 1831 when Mexico formed its own government. This was mainly used as grazing land for cattle and horses, until it later became a pioneer village to attract wealthy fruit ranchers in the late 1800's. This area attracted people from many different areas, and reflected a number of different architectural styles. The name "Chula Vista" was suggested by James D. Schulyer, a resident, which can be loosely translated in Spanish as "beautiful view".
Various events that have affected Chula Vista's development were the development of the Santa Fe Railroad to San Diego, the completion of the Sweetwater Dam, and the incorporation of Chula Vista into the State of California on October 17, 1911.
For more information on the history of Chula Vista, please visit the following websites:
http://www.chulavistaca.gov/About/History.asp
http://www.sanmiguelranch.com/chulavista.htm
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