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The decline of the Caddo people due to various pressures, including disease and conflict, opened up vast tracts of land for ranching. By 1810, numerous ranches were established in East Texas, marking the beginning of a significant economic shift towards livestock raising in the region.
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The increasing presence of Anglo-Americans in Texas raised concerns among Spanish authorities about American expansionism. This fear prompted efforts to strengthen Spanish control over Texas, setting the stage for future conflicts.
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Napoleon’s invasion led to a power vacuum in Spain as King Ferdinand VII was replaced by his brother Joseph Bonaparte. This political instability weakened Spanish authority in its colonies, including Texas.
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To counteract American influence and secure its territory, the Spanish government established San Marcos de Neve under Felipe Roque de la Portilla. This settlement aimed to reinforce Spanish presence and control over the region.
https://www.visitsanmarcos.com/plan-your-visit/about-san-marcos/history/ -
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s call for rebellion against Spanish rule marked the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. Although Hidalgo did not declare independence outright, his actions ignited widespread revolutionary fervor across Mexico, including Texas.
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Due to increasing attacks and instability during the early stages of the Mexican War of Independence, San Marcos was abandoned after only a few months as settlers fled from violence and uncertainty. -
Following Hidalgo’s execution, Morelos emerged as a key leader in the independence movement, demonstrating effective military strategy and gaining control over significant territories in Mexico, further destabilizing Spanish rule.
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The Mexican government encouraged Anglo-American settlement to populate its northern territories like Texas as a buffer against potential U.S. expansionism. This influx significantly altered demographics and tensions within Texas.
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Stephen F. Austin successfully negotiated with Mexican authorities to settle American families in Texas under specific conditions that included adopting Catholicism and becoming Mexican citizens. His efforts laid foundational structures for future governance and resistance against centralized Mexican authority.
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The culmination of years of struggle resulted in Mexico officially gaining independence from Spain with the signing of treaties that recognized its sovereignty. This event directly ended Spanish colonial rule over Texas. https://casamariatucson.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/INDEPENDENCIAMEX.jpeg
