The primary purpose of the Spanish missions in California was to evangelize and convert Indigenous peoples to Christianity. Established by Spanish colonizers during the late 18th century, these missions aimed to spread Catholicism while also expanding Spanish territorial claims. The missions served as centers for agricultural development and community life, providing shelter and education for Native Americans. However, the missions often disrupted Indigenous cultures, leading to significant social and demographic changes. Ultimately, the California missions played a crucial role in the Spanish colonization of the region and laid the groundwork for subsequent development.