Introduced as a squatter with initial reservations about his role, he undergoes significant changes in political, social, and ethical perspectives. His journey is marked by pride and eventual regret.

An honorable and principled settler from Northern California, he secretly pays for the land he inhabits. His moral compass and actions align him with idealized heroism in the narrative.

The youngest Alamar daughter, characterized by her sentimental nature and emotional sensitivity. Her appearance, tied to notions of racial identity, and her role embody the "angel of the house" archetype.

A corrupt lawyer representing the decline of San Diego, his unethical methods amplify the novel’s thematic exploration of greed. Despite his success, his political ambitions falter due to community backlash.

A collective group who seize Mariano’s land, functioning as secondary antagonists. They pose both moral and material threats, contributing to the story’s depiction of societal challenges.