Anglos and Mexicans in the Making of Texas, 1836-1986

The history of Texas is a complex and fascinating one, marked by the interactions between Anglos and Mexicans. This article explores the history of these two groups in Texas, from the early days of Spanish colonization to the present day.

Anglos and Mexicans in the Making of Texas, 1836–1986

by David Montejano

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Language	:	English
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Spanish Colonization

The first Europeans to arrive in Texas were Spanish explorers in the early 16th century. They were followed by missionaries and settlers, who established a number of missions and settlements in the region.

The Spanish government encouraged Anglo settlement in Texas in the early 19th century. In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain, and Texas became part of the new Mexican nation.

The Mexican-American War

In 1836, Texas declared independence from Mexico. This led to the Mexican-American War, which lasted until 1848. The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ceded Texas to the United States.

The Civil War

Texas joined the Confederacy during the Civil War. The war ended in 1865 with the defeat of the Confederacy. Texas was readmitted to the Union in 1870.

Reconstruction

During Reconstruction, Texas was under military occupation. The state government was controlled by Republicans, who worked to protect the rights of African Americans.

In 1873, the Texas Rangers were established to suppress violence and lawlessness on the frontier.

Jim Crow

After Reconstruction, Texas became a one-party state dominated by white Democrats. White supremacy was enforced through a system of segregation known as Jim Crow.

Jim Crow laws segregated Mexicans from Anglos in all areas of life, including education, housing, and employment.

The Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s challenged segregation and discrimination. In 1965, the Voting Rights Act was passed, which outlawed discriminatory voting practices.

The Civil Rights Movement also led to the rise of the Chicano Movement, a Mexican-American civil rights movement.

The Chicano Movement

The Chicano Movement was a political and cultural movement that sought to empower Mexican Americans. The movement fought for social justice, economic equality, and educational opportunities.

The Chicano Movement had a significant impact on Texas politics. In 1970, Henry B. Gonzalez became the first Mexican American elected to the U.S. Congress from Texas.

Present Day

Today, Texas is a diverse state with a large Mexican American population. Mexican Americans have made significant contributions to the state's economy, culture, and politics.

However, racial and ethnic disparities persist in Texas. Mexican Americans are more likely to live in poverty, have lower levels of education, and experience discrimination.

The history of Anglos and Mexicans in Texas is a complex and ongoing one. The two groups have had a profound impact on each other, and their relationship continues to shape the state today.

Anglos and Mexicans in the Making of Texas, 1836–1986

by David Montejano

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9584 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	398 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE