Juan Bautista de Anza was a military officer, governor, explorer and diplomat. His life had an enormous impact on the history of California, Arizona, Texas, New Mexico, and Northern Mexico.
To learn more:

• Book: Carlos R. Herrera. Juan Bautista de Anza: The King’s Governor in New Mexico.
• Book: Vladimir Guerrero. The Anza Trail and the Settling of California.
• Anza Trail Guide: This guide to the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail was developed by Anza party descendant Greg Bernal-Mendoza Smestad. I interviewed Greg on the California Frontier Podcast.
• The Anza Society has an extensive list of books about Anza.