Into the West

Manifest Destiny Belief that God intended the United States to expand Westward. Hoped that westward expansion would solve overcrowding, up the economy, and create new industrial markets. Idea coined by John L. O’Sullivan

Mexican Texas Mexico wanted to boost non-American Indian population, so they offered cheap land and freedom from taxation for U.S. citizens who chose to settle. Tejanos: native Mexicans who lived in Texas. Empressarios: people who agreed to recruit and take responsibility for new settlers.

The Texas Revolution 1830: Mexico closes the border, prohibited the importation of slaves. Many harbored resentment for the 1830 acts. 1833: Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna was elected president: practiced dictatorship. U.S. and Tejanos take on Mexico.

The Alamo 1836: Alamo, mission fort, 189 Texas rebels led by William Travis and Jim Bowie fought off Santa Anna’s army. March 6: Mexicans finally took the fort.

San Jacinto Led by Sam Houston 900 rebels surprised Santa Anna’s troops Ended up taking Santa Anna prisoner, causing Santa Anna to sign a treaty granting Texas it’s independence.

Economy and Defense in Texas Few cities and towns Travel and communication was difficult and limited Had little cash, and very little tax revenue Texas Rangers protected the Republic from the U.S., Mexico, and Indians.

Homework Read Chapter 10, section 1 –Questions 1, 2, 4