This study focuses on the treatment of non white minority groups by those responsible for public education in California between 1849 and 1970. Discrimination against blacks, American Indians, children of Mexican migrant workers, and Asian Americans are discussed in terms of government legislation, school board policies and social attitudes. Such questions as whether or not non whites would be permitted to attend school or, if permitted, whether or not they would be segregated from white students, are addressed in an effort to determine what educational opportunities were provided for them. Beyond chronicling the history of school attendance and various forms of discriminatory practice at the State and local levels, variables which served to alter the nature of the treatment of non whites either positively or negatively are described. An extensive list of references is also provided. (Author/EB)