In part two of this interview with author Eric Plunkett, we get into some real stories of people who lived through some of the enormous changes of the early years.
Eric emphasizes the importance of translating and making primary sources from Spanish colonial California available, as they provide deeper and more authentic insights into the lives of persons and communities during that period.
Eric finds the connections he makes with people through his research to be incredibly rewarding. He especially enjoys meeting descendants of historical figures and learning about their family history, and these connections often lead him to new sources and stories.
He believes that while we can find stories of injustice in the past, there are also stories of perseverance, collaboration, and resilience that can teach valuable lessons.
Eric encourages people to look beyond simplistic narratives and explore the complexities and nuances.