Overview
The lecture covers the causes, main events, and consequences of the Texas Revolution, highlighting its roots in American westward expansion and its lasting impact on slavery debates in U.S. politics.
Background and Causes of the Texas Revolution
- Americans were drawn to Texas for its fertile land and natural resources.
- The Adams-OnÃs Treaty (1819) set the U.S.-Spanish border, but Americans soon illegally migrated to Texas.
- Spanish and later Mexican authorities could not effectively control migration due to weak presence and Native American resistance (Comanche).
- Mexico gained independence in 1821 and created a federalist constitution in 1824, allowing provincial autonomy.
- To control immigration, Mexico used the impresario system, giving land grants to agents like Stephen F. Austin.
- Most settlers were Southerners who brought slavery, making it central to Texas society.
- By 1835, Anglos vastly outnumbered Tejanos; Texas became culturally Americanized.
Political Tensions and Push Toward Rebellion
- Antonio López de Santa Anna became president in 1834, suspended the Mexican Congress, and assumed dictatorial powers.
- Santa Anna aimed to halt U.S. immigration and hinted at abolishing slavery in Texas.
- Stephen F. Austin was imprisoned by Santa Anna, further alarming Texans.
- The central issue driving Texans to rebellion was the defense of slavery, alongside cultural differences.
Key Battles and Declaration of Independence
- Initial fighting was to restore the 1824 Mexican constitution, not full independence.
- Santa Anna marched into Texas with 3,000 troops, targeting San Antonio and the Alamo.
- The Battle of the Alamo (March 6, 1836) ended in defeat for the Texan defenders but rallied support for independence.
- On March 2, 1836, 59 delegates declared Texas independence at Washington-on-the-Brazos and appointed Sam Houston as military commander.
Military Campaigns and Texan Victory
- Sam Houston employed a strategy of retreat and maneuver, mirroring George Washington.
- On April 21, 1836, Houston's forces defeated Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto in 18 minutes.
- Santa Anna was captured, and the Treaties of Velasco ended the war, granting Texas de facto independence.
Consequences and Significance
- The new Republic of Texas legalized slavery, banned free Blacks, and elected Sam Houston president.
- Texas sought U.S. annexation immediately, but was blocked due to sectional disputes over slavery.
- Northern opposition viewed Texas annexation as an attempt to expand slavery and Southern political power, echoing earlier Missouri debates.
- Texas remained independent until 1845, when it joined the U.S. amidst ongoing national conflict over slavery.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Impresario — A land agent authorized by Mexico to recruit settlers for Texas.
- Tejanos — Spanish-speaking residents of Texas.
- Santa Anna — Mexican general and president, later dictator, opposed Texan autonomy.
- Battle of the Alamo — Pivotal 1836 battle where Texans were defeated, boosting independence support.
- Battle of San Jacinto — Final, decisive battle for Texan independence.
- Treaties of Velasco — Agreements ending hostilities; set terms for Texas independence.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the main battles (Alamo, San Jacinto) and their outcomes.
- Understand the role of slavery in precipitating the Texas Revolution.
- Prepare for discussion on how Texas's independence affected U.S. politics regarding slavery and expansion.