Step 1

Question

Conduct the following research to complete your assignment:
Research Source of Information
List basic facts about the root of the conflict—include who, what, when, where, and why.
Describe the Texans’ actions—how Texas came to exist.
List some differences between the Texan and Mexican perspectives after the Texas war for independence.

Answer 1

Step 1: Research on the Texas Conflict

Basic Facts about the Root of the Conflict

• Who: The conflict primarily involved Anglo-American settlers in Texas (Texans) and the Mexican government.
• What: The Texas War for Independence, which led to Texas becoming an independent republic and later a state in the United States.
• When: The primary conflict occurred between 1835 and 1836, although tensions began in the early 1830s.
• Where: The conflict took place in the region that is now Texas, which was part of Mexico at the time.
• Why: The root causes included cultural differences, economic interests, and political governance. Many Anglo settlers were unhappy with the Mexican government's restrictions and policies, particularly regarding slavery and land grants, leading to increasing tensions and a demand for self-governance.

Describe the Texans’ Actions—How Texas Came to Exist

Anglo-American settlers, encouraged by land grants and opportunities to cultivate cotton, began to migrate to Texas in the 1820s. Tensions escalated as Mexico struggled to enforce its laws and maintain control over the sparsely populated region. Key actions taken by Texans included:

• Formation of Committees of Correspondence to promote independence and organize resistance against Mexican authority.
• The Siege of Bexar (October to December 1835), where Texan forces captured San Antonio from Mexican troops.
• Declaration of Independence: On March 2, 1836, Texas declared its independence from Mexico.
• Battle of the Alamo (February-March 1836): A pivotal event where a small group of Texan defenders was besieged and killed by Mexican forces, rallying Texan morale.
• Battle of San Jacinto (April 21, 1836): A decisive victory for Texan forces, leading to the capture of Mexican General Santa Anna and solidifying Texan independence.

Differences between the Texan and Mexican Perspectives after the Texas War for Independence

1. Government and Autonomy:

   • Texans: Viewed the conflict as a fight for self-governance and liberty. They wanted an independent republic free from Mexican centralist policies, particularly regarding local governance and rights.
   • Mexicans: Saw the Texans as rebellious subjects violating their laws and sovereignty. The Mexican government considered the secession and subsequent independence an unlawful act.

2. Cultural Identity:

   • Texans: Many Anglo settlers were cultural and religious descendants of the United States, prioritizing individual freedoms and Protestant beliefs, which contrasted with Mexican Catholic traditions.
   • Mexicans: Felt a sense of cultural unity and nationalism that not only included Mexican citizens but also encompassed the Tejanos (Texans of Mexican descent), who often felt disregarded in the conflict.

3. Economic Interests:

   • Texans: Desiring to pursue agricultural ambitions, particularly in cotton, many settlers wished to maintain slavery, which was allowed and provided economic benefits.
   • Mexicans: Mexico had abolished slavery in 1829, and many Mexican leaders were against its reinstitution, creating further friction over economic systems.

Through these points, we can see a complex interplay of motivations and perceptions that defined the conflict between Texas and Mexico.