The Road Ahead: The Automobile's Impact on California

For more than a century, the automobile shrank and wove together the State of California.It opened up the state’s most remote parts through the development of one of the most sophisticated transportation grids in history. The car also redefined how and where Californians would work and live, and shaped the Golden State’s unique lifestyle.

California has always been a place in motion.

Beginning with the first Native American migrations, Californians have been on the move. From carts and wagons to trains and planes, perhaps no other means of transportation has played a greater role in the Golden State’s development than the automobile.

California, the world's first "auto-civilization".

The automobile, more than any other form of transportation, has been the most transformative piece of technology in history. Since 1898, the automobile has helped to shape and define the California way of life, creating what has been called the world’s first “auto-civilization.”

Government took a leading role from the beginning

when it came to licensing and regulating the automobile and its use. It also took on the responsibility of creating the massive infrastructure system needed to keep California in a constant state of motion.

The automobile shaped the Golden State's unique lifestyle.

For more than a century, the automobile shrank and wove together the State of California.It opened up the state’s most remote parts through the development of one of the most sophisticated transportation grids in history. The car also redefined how and where Californians would work and live, and shaped the Golden State’s unique lifestyle.

The Automobile’s Impact on…

Interactive Virtual Tour photo

Culture

Read about the Automobile’s Impact on the Culture and Lifestyle of California

Read More
Interactive Virtual Tour photo

Industry

Read about the Automobile’s Impact on the Automobile Industry in California

Read More
Interactive Virtual Tour photo

Government

Read about the Automobile’s Impact on Government and Roadways in California

Read More
Interactive Virtual Tour photo

The Museum Exhibit

View photos, text and exhibit panels on display for “The Road Ahead” Museum Exhibit

Read More

California State Capitol Museum — The Road Ahead Exhibit

This is a website specifically for the “The Road Ahead: The Automobile’s Impact on California” Exhibit. Dates: May 23, 2018 – April 29, 2019 at the California State Capitol Museum.

For Museum-related information such as contacts, hours and location: Visit capitolmuseum.ca.gov.