1. Critical Thinking Circles
Expansion IN texas
Critical Thinking Circles

2. Question #1
Why did tensions develop between Native Americans and Mexican inhabitants of Texas?

3. Answer
Spain’s system of Roman Catholic missions tried to convert Native Americans to Catholicism.

4. Why did Mexico invite American settlers to Texas?
Question #2
Why did Mexico invite American settlers to Texas?

5. Answer
To prevent border violations by horse thieves and to protect the territory from Native American attacks

6. What role did Stephen Austin play in the American settlement of Texas?
Question #3
What role did Stephen Austin play in the American settlement of Texas?

7. Answer
Austin established a colony between the Brazos and Colorado rivers, where “no drunkard, no gambler, or profane swearer, and no idler” would be allowed.

8. Question #4
Why did the Anglo settlers in Texas rebel against the Mexican government?

9. Answer
Mexico had been promoting immigration to that region to the point where there was a huge influx of American citizens interested in the cheap land. This worried the Mexican government, who decided to restrict immigration and take away some of the land granted to the American settlers.

10. What was the significance of the battle at the Alamo?
Question #5
What was the significance of the battle at the Alamo?

11. Answer
The battle of the Alamo is a long-recognized symbol of bravery in the face of unbeatable odds. Although the battle itself lasted only 90 minutes, it was the culmination of a 13-day siege by General Antonio López de Santa Anna's troops against the outnumbered inhabitants of the fort. It is the site where some of America's most revered legends, including Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, died.

12. How did Texas eventually become the 28th state in the Union?
Question #6
How did Texas eventually become the 28th state in the Union?

13. Answer
Sam Houston defeated Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. The victorious Texans set Santa Anna free after he signed the Treaty of Velasco, which granted independence to Texas. In 1838, Houston invited the US to annex Texas. James K Polk wins presidency and favored the annexation of Texas.