While marching toward the conquest and occupation of California during the Mexican War, a detachment of 1st U.S. Dragoons under the command of Brig. Gen. Stephen W. Kearny met native California lancers under the command of Gen. Andres Pico at this site. In the battle, fought on December 6, 1846, the American forces suffered severe losses. The native Californians withdrew after Kearny rallied his men on the field. Gallant action by both forces characterized the Battle of San Pasqual, one of the significant actions of the Mexican War of 1846-1848.