Texas History and Independence

The video discusses the expansion of American settlers into Texas, the policies of Mexico to attract settlers, and the resulting tensions. It covers the events leading to Texas declaring independence, the formation of the Republic of Texas, and its eventual annexation into the United States. The video also touches on the expansionist policies of President James Polk.

What was the primary purpose of the early Spanish missions in Texas?

• To convert Native Americans to Catholicism

• To build military forts

• To establish trade routes

• To find gold and silver

Why did Mexico encourage American farmers to settle in Texas after gaining independence?

• To increase the population of Mexico City

• To boost the economy and protect against Native American attacks

• To create a buffer zone against European powers

• To establish a new capital in Texas

What was one of the main reasons American settlers in Texas clashed with the Mexican government?

• They were not allowed to trade with other countries

• They refused to follow Mexican laws, including the ban on slavery

• They were forced to pay high taxes

• They wanted to establish their own currency

What event marked the beginning of Texas' fight for independence?

• The closure of Mexican borders

• The signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

• The Battle of the Alamo

• The Battle of San Jacinto

Who led the American forces to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto?

• James Polk

• Santa Anna

• Sam Houston

• Stephen F. Austin

What was the outcome of the Battle of San Jacinto?

• Santa Anna was captured and executed

• Texas remained part of Mexico

• Texas gained its independence

• The United States annexed Texas immediately

What was a significant challenge faced by Tejanos after Texas gained independence?

• They were forced to leave Texas

• They faced discrimination from American settlers

• They had to pay higher taxes

• They were not allowed to own land

Why was Texas initially denied statehood in the United States?

• It had unresolved border disputes with Mexico

• It was too far from Washington, D.C.

• It wanted to enter as a slave state, disrupting the balance

• It lacked a stable government

Which U.S. president played a key role in the annexation of Texas?

• John Quincy Adams

• Martin Van Buren

• Andrew Jackson

• James Polk

What was one of James Polk's goals as an expansionist president?

• To build a transcontinental railroad

• To create a new trade route to Asia

• To expand U.S. territory, including Texas and Oregon

• To establish a new capital in Texas