1. Anson Jones

2. Anson Jones : Early Life
Came to Texas in 1833
Ran a successful medical practice in Brazoria (he was a doctor)
Fought in the Texas Revolution
Served in Congress
Was sent to work on Texas’s behalf in the U.S. in 1838
Served as Secretary of State for Texas

3. Presidential Policies
Continued Houston’s policies on major issues dealing with the Republic
Maintained peace policy towards Native Americans
Tried to make peace with Mexico
His most pressing issue was annexation

4. Arguments for Annexation
A major concern was the threat that Mexico could retake Texas
Texas was deep 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 give financial stability to the state.
U.S. could continue with their goal of Manifest Destiny, the idea that the U.S. should reach from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, a big part of James Polk’s run for Presidency.

5. Arguments against Annexation
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.
Also, there was always the possibility of trouble with Mexico if Texas was annexed.

6. The Proposed Treaty of 1844
Texas was to become territory of the United States.
Texas had to give up its public lands, that it property owned by a government and not individuals.
U.S. to pay the debt of Texas.
Texans agreed, but Treaty was rejected by the US Senate.

7. Jones's Strategy
He 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., so they supported Texas’ sovereignty.

8. 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 at any time.
Texas would be a slave state.

9. Results: 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 refused, and joined the United States.
It becomes the 28th State on December 29, 1845.