Critique (examine) the actions of Haden Edwards. How did his behavior ignite the tensions between the Texas settlers and the Mexican government? (1 point)

Question

Responses

Edwards's actions showed that land grants were not the way to bring settlers to Mexico.
Edwards's actions showed that land grants were not the way to bring settlers to Mexico.

Edwards's actions caused Mexican officials to realize the U. S. was a threat to them.
Edwards's actions caused Mexican officials to realize the U. S. was a threat to them.

Edwards's actions showed that the settlers could not be trusted to follow the laws of Mexico.
Edwards's actions showed that the settlers could not be trusted to follow the laws of Mexico.

Edwards made the Mexican government realize that officials should be appointed, not elected.

Answer 1

Haden Edwards' actions can be critically examined through his role in advancing tensions between Texas settlers and the Mexican government. His behavior primarily exemplified a disregard for the Mexican legal and social framework, which contributed significantly to the growing discontent among settlers and the Mexican authorities.

1. Challenges to Land Grants: Edwards' initial endeavor involved claiming land grants in Texas, but his management of these grants revealed a lack of understanding of the complexities of land ownership and local governance in Mexico. His attempts to enforce a strict land policy and his exploitation of land claims alienated many settlers. Edwards’ heavy-handedness made Mexican officials question the viability of land grants and led to tensions as settlers felt marginalized by the perceived inequities in land distribution.

2. Suspicion of U.S. Influence: Edwards' actions and his subsequent establishment of a faction hinted at potential U.S. intentions to influence or annex Mexican territory. This perception alarmed Mexican authorities, leading them to view American settlers in Texas with suspicion. His behavior helped solidify the belief that U.S. settlers were not simply immigrants but potential insurgents looking to undermine Mexican sovereignty.

3. Trust and Lawfulness: Edwards’ assertive and often confrontational tactics portrayed settlers as unreliable in adhering to Mexican laws and customs. His actions, including declaring independence for the "Republic of Fredonia" alongside discontented settlers, showed a willingness to flout Mexican authority and legal norms. This fostered an environment of mistrust between the Mexican government and the settlers, further escalating tensions.

4. Government and Representation: Edwards’ agitation for self-governance reflected a broader dissatisfaction among settlers regarding Mexican rule, wherein locally elected officials were distrusted by the Mexican government. His actions contributed to a narrative that favored appointed officials, as the Mexican authorities believed that such oversight would mitigate the insubordination exhibited by the settlers.

In summary, Haden Edwards' approach to land grants and governance not only highlighted the discontent of Texas settlers but also exacerbated the fears and concerns of the Mexican government regarding the presence of U.S. settlers, leading to increased tensions and mistrust that would influence future relations.

Answer 2

a b c or d

Answer 3

Based on the critique of Haden Edwards' actions, the most accurate response is:

C. Edwards's actions showed that the settlers could not be trusted to follow the laws of Mexico.

This option best captures how Edwards' behavior contributed to increasing tensions between the Texas settlers and the Mexican government by demonstrating a lack of adherence to Mexican laws and customs.