Working with databases in Java: a learning trajectory

I've been trying to learn about databases for a while now, but have found a mountain of resources on the topic - researched for quite a while on and off this site before asking this. I did manage to figure out that SQLite and MySQL are what I'll need to learn for my current + upcoming projects.

The problem I kept having was that there was an assumption made by each guide, necessitating additional research or change in software. I've gotten so confused I believe my eyebrows won't ever be straight again. I want to ask more clearly, then:

• I want to use tools when appropriate, but understand that there's often an optimal order to their usage (e.g. get an understanding through going without tools before progressing to something more automated might be a thing)
• I know basic Java
• I haven't worked with SQL or databases before (though have stored strings in text files)
• I need embedded- and will eventually need server-based databases (SQLite and MySQL)

What exactly do I need to learn (and install) - and in what order?

For example, SQL language first, then JDBC (as taught in JDBC Tutorial) using built in IDE tools in all major IDEs then SQLite-specific stuff then MySQL from Terminal