Thomas O. Larkin: A Life of Patriotism and Profit in Old California

by Harlan Hague, David J. Langum

Winner of the Caroline Bancroft History Prize
Arriving in Mexican California in 1832, Thomas O. Larkin (1802-1858) expected to become a rich man-and he he became a successful merchant, financier, and land developer. Larkin also became the confidant of California officials, American consul to California, and secret agent of the president of the United States during the territory's transition from Mexican to American control. Harlan Hague and David Langum have uncovered a large body of new information, shedding light on many aspects of Larkin's personal life as well as on his business and diplomatic activities. Historians and general readers will welcome this full-scale biography of one of the most important men in the history of early California.

320 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1990

About the author

Harlan Hague, Ph.D., a retired history professor, has published history, prize-winning biography, award-winning fiction, travel and a bit of fantasy. He also writes screenplays. Travel and writing are complementary obsessions that are also most rewarding. For more on who he is and what he does, see his web site at http://harlanhague.us. He will respond to comments and questions.