Why was Stephen Austin able to establish a colony in Mexican territory? (1 point)

Answer 1

Stephen Austin was able to establish a colony in Mexican territory primarily due to the willingness of the Mexican government to promote settlement in its sparsely populated region of Texas. Following Mexico's independence from Spain, the government sought to encourage immigration and development in Texas to strengthen its hold on the territory. In 1821, Austin received a land grant from the Mexican government to bring American settlers to the area, which he successfully did, capitalizing on the existing economic opportunities and the appeal of land ownership for many American settlers. His negotiations and the favorable policies of the Mexican government at the time allowed him to lay the foundation for a thriving colony.