Texas history unit 2 study guide
1. How did the arrival of Spanish explorers impact Texas?
- Spanish explorers, such as Cabeza de Vaca, were some of the first Europeans to explore Texas in the early 1500s. They brought new diseases, such as smallpox and measles, that had a devastating impact on the Native American populations. They also introduced horses and other livestock to the region, which would later become integral to Texas culture.
2. What role did the missions play in Spanish colonization of Texas?
- The missions were established by Spanish priests in an effort to convert Native Americans to Christianity and assimilate them into Spanish culture. The missions also served as centers for agriculture and trade, helping to establish Spanish control over the region.
3. How did the arrival of the French impact Texas in the 1600s?
- The arrival of the French in the 1600s led to increased tensions between the Spanish and French as they competed for control of valuable resources and territory in North America. The Spanish ultimately built a series of missions and presidios in East Texas to counter the French presence.
4. What was the impact of the Mexican War of Independence on Texas?
- The Mexican War of Independence in the early 1800s led to political instability in Mexico and a weakening of Spanish control over Texas. This created an opportunity for Anglo-American settlers to move into Texas and establish their own independent government.
5. Who were the empresarios and what role did they play in Texas history?
- Empresarios were land agents who were contracted by the Mexican government to bring settlers to Texas. They played a crucial role in the colonization of Texas, helping to attract large numbers of Anglo-American immigrants to the region.
6. How did the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto contribute to Texas becoming an independent republic?
- The Battle of the Alamo, where a small group of Texan defenders held off a much larger Mexican force, became a rallying cry for the Texan independence movement. The decisive victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, where Texan forces led by Sam Houston defeated the Mexican army and captured General Santa Anna, ultimately led to Texas winning its independence from Mexico and becoming a republic.
7. What were the challenges faced by the Republic of Texas in its early years?
- The Republic of Texas faced numerous challenges in its early years, including border disputes with Mexico, financial instability, and conflicts with Native American tribes. The lack of recognition from other countries also hampered the republic's ability to establish itself as a legitimate independent nation.
8. What were the reasons for Texas joining the United States in 1845?
- Texas joined the United States in 1845 primarily due to economic reasons, as the republic was struggling financially and saw annexation as a way to improve its economic prospects. Additionally, fears of a potential invasion by Mexico and a desire for protection from Native American attacks also played a role in Texas's decision to join the United States.