Chapter 12 Section 2 Texas Independence Objectives: 1. What did Mexico offer to attract colonists to Texas and discuss what Mexicans hoped Americans would do in the Texas. 2. Give three reasons there was tension between Texas and Mexico 3. Be able to create a timeline of events that led to Texas independence 4. Give the problem facing Texas after independence and the conflict in the United States on whether to annex Texas. VI. Texas was a Mexican Colony A. Mexico wanted to attract new people to Texas 1. In 1821, the first leader was Stephen Austin a. He led 300 families b. Each received 640 acres of land 2. By 1830 there were over 20,000 people a. Most were southern slave owners B. Mexico believed that Americans would 1. Develop the land 2. Control the Native Americans VII. Soon Texas becomes a Mexican problem A. Settlers were to 1. Speak Spanish 2. Become Catholic 3. No slaves VIII. The Battles for Texas A. There were two battles that started Texas independence 1. Gonzales was the first Texan victory 2. The second victory was San Antonio B. The most famous battle in Texas history is the Alamo 1. This was a Mexican victory 2. The battle last 12 days 3. ALL 187 defenders were killed 4. This becomes a rally cry for Texans as Remember the Alamo a. Made Texans want to fight harder C. The final victory was the Battle of San Jacinto 1. The forces were led by Sam Houston 2. The battle lasted only 18 minutes 3. Texans found the Mexicans while they were on siesta IX. Independence At Last A. Texas declared its independence on March 2. 1836 before the Battle of the Alamo B. This was not official until April 21, 1836 with the victory at San Jacinto C. From this point on Texas will become it own nation called the Lone Star Republic 1. Created a constitution like the US 2. Elected Sam Houston as its first President X. Texas Troubles A. After declaring independence Texas has no money B. Most Texans want to be annexed by the US C. The US is divided on whether to annex Texas 1. North does not want Texas because it will be a slave state 2. South wants Texas because it will be a slave state D. The US was fearful of war with Mexico if it annexed Texas 1. Jackson, Van Buren, Harrison and Tyler did not annex Texas 2. Polk finally agrees to annex Texas because Manifest Destiny was popular .