1. Anson Jones : Early Life
Came to Texas in 1833 and ran a successful medical practice in Brazoria
Fought in the Texas Revolution
Served in Republic of TX Congress & Senate
Appointed diplomat to the U.S. in 1838

2. Presidential Policies
Continued most of Houston’s policies on major issues dealing with the Republic
Tried to maintain peace with the Natives & Mexico
His most pressing issue was annexation

3. Annexation: Arguments for Statehood
A major concern was the threat that Mexico could retake Texas
Texas was heavy in debt, few Texans had enough money to pay taxes, the government had few sources of income, and had trouble borrowing money. Joining the United States would allow the use of American currency & solve the issue of debt

4. American Concerns About Texas
If Texas joined the United States it would upset the balance of free and slave states
The Unites States also faced economic problems due to the Panic of 1837, they did not need to admit a state that was deep in debt
Annexing Texas meant war with Mexico would soon follow

5. The Treaty of 1844 Texas was to become territory of the United States
Texas had to give up its public lands
U.S. to pay the debt of Texas
Texans agreed to the treaty but The US Senate rejected the treaty 35 to 16

6. Jones' Strategy
Jones worked out a plan that involved Great Britain which tried to pressure Mexico into recognizing Texas as a free nation
Jones knew the U.S. did not want British influence in North America
The British did not want Texas to become part of the U.S.

7. The Joint Resolution of 1845
Texas would join the U.S after the people approved the constitution
Texas could keep its public land; but any profit from sale would go towards the debt
Texas could divide itself into as many as five states
Texas would be a slave state

8. Mexico offers recognition
Britain convinced Jones to delay actions for 90 days
Britain urged Mexico to recognize Texas as an independent nation
Mexico agrees but with one condition, Texas must reject annexation from the United States
Texas declines Mexico’s conditions.
Texas becomes the 28th State on December 29, 1845