Juan Bautista de Anza was a Spanish explorer and military leader known for his expeditions in the 18th century. He is best recognized for leading an overland route from present-day Mexico to California, which helped establish the first Spanish settlements in the region, including San Francisco and Los Angeles. His journeys contributed significantly to the Spanish colonization of the American West. Anza was born in 1736 in Sonora, Mexico, and became a prominent figure in the Spanish military. His expeditions not only facilitated the movement of settlers but also strengthened Spain's presence in California. Anza's legacy is celebrated for its impact on the cultural and historical development of the area.