Westward Expansion and the Settlers of Texas
Relations Between Settlers and Native People in Texas
The relationship between settlers and the native people of Texas evolved through several stages. Initially, newcomers interacted with the native people, primarily hunters and traders, leading to a “frontier of inclusion.” Settlers began to integrate into the community and adopt native customs. However, this period of relative peace gave way to tension as the American population surged, particularly during the gold rush. Competition for resources led to animosity. Eventually, communities began to segregate, creating a “frontier of exclusion” marked by limited intermingling of races.
Juan Nepomuceno Seguín
Juan Nepomuceno Seguín was a prominent leader in the San Antonio community. He initially recruited Tejano volunteers to join American forces in Alabama. Later, Seguín led a regiment of Tejanos at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, a pivotal victory that secured Texas independence.
The Tejano Community
Tejanos primarily resided in southern Texas, often maintaining ranchos with modest resources. Despite their economic status, they played a significant role in the newly formed Republic of Texas.
The Federal Government’s Role in Western Exploration
The federal government played a crucial role in westward exploration, sponsoring expeditions like the Lewis and Clark expedition. The government also published maps and illustrations, contributing to the developing American identity.
Indian Tribes Along the Santa Fe Trail
- Foxes
- Kickapoos
- Otos
- Shawnees
- Weas
Manifest Destiny
Manifest Destiny was the belief that westward expansion was both justified and inevitable. This doctrine fueled Native American removal and the war with Mexico. The term originated in the 1840s, coined by newspaper writer John O’Sullivan.
Missionary Zeal
“Missionary zeal” refers to a divinely inspired mission, such as the belief in Manifest Destiny.
Reasons for Westward Migration
People moved west for a variety of reasons, including market evolution, expanding transportation and commerce, and the discovery of gold.
The Mexican-American War
In 1845, President Polk deployed American troops to the Nueces River and the Texas border along the Rio Grande to deter a potential Mexican invasion. Following a minor skirmish between American and Mexican forces, Polk perceived Mexican aggression and declared war.
James Polk and Manifest Destiny
James Polk is considered the Manifest Destiny president due to his close association with the term’s originator, a fellow Democrat, and his active promotion of westward expansion.
The End of the Mexican-American War
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848, ended the Mexican-American War. Mexico ceded the northern provinces of California and New Mexico, and recognized the Rio Grande as the border with Texas. The United States paid Mexico $15 million for the acquired land.
The California Gold Rush
In 1848, James Marshall discovered gold in California, sparking a massive westward migration.
Mining Camps
Mining camps attracted people seeking fortune, business opportunities, and entertainment.
The Wilmot Proviso
In 1846, amidst opposition to Polk’s expansionist policies, primarily from Whigs, David Wilmot proposed the Wilmot Proviso, which sought to ban slavery in all territories acquired from Mexico.
The Free-Soil Movement
The Free-Soil Party emerged in the 1840s as a more moderate alternative to the Liberty Party’s staunch anti-slavery stance. The Free-Soil Party argued that free men on free soil represented a morally and economically superior system to slavery and supported the Wilmot Proviso.