The Alamo

My trip to Texas is now coming to a close. I left Austin at 8:30 am and am now in Dallas waiting for my connection to Orange County. Even though the trip was a short 3 days it felt even shorter because of the fun I had with my sister, her husband and two adorable nephews. Across from Target in the plaza, I saw a great example of culinary Cultural Diffusion: Greek, Indian (not just Indian but Cholla Indian- I thought it was interesting since we talk about this small regional kingdom during the rise of the Indian Ocean Basin, Mexican and Mongolian. The topic of focus today is the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas. I hope you are all enjoying your break and see you all soon. Mrs. Jordan

Historical Context:

During the era Global Interactions, European nations began their voyages seeking quicker routes to the East. What ended up happening was a massive period of colonization also known as Old Imperialism (post Columbus 1492). While we know Spain was a major colonizer of Latin America, they also ventured to mainland North America to add to their possessions. Including gathering land and resources from colonial land Spain also wanted to spread Christianity to the indigenous people of the new world. One way they did this was to build missions.

Both Spain and France entered North America along the Southern Coast and had control over this land during different points in time. Spain first arrived in Texas in 1690, and then decided to colonize later in 1689. Native tribes resisted the Spanish presence which caused the missionaries to return to Mexico, abandoning Texas for some time.

The Spanish returned to East Texas in 1716, establishing several missions. Two years later, the first civilian settlement in San Antonio, Texas, was established. Indigenous attacks were a constant occurrence, which greatly discouraged settlers from moving to Texas, and it remained one of the least populated provinces of New Spain. Slowly, the number of missions in the province allowed for a peaceful relationship between natives and Spanish. The transition of power of Texas from France, Spain and Mexico is a bit complicated so remember this take place during Napoleon’s attempt to control Europe and his European diplomacy greatly influenced this piece of America.

During the Mexican Revolution 1810–1821, Texas experienced much turmoil. Spain was forced to relinquish its control of New Spain in 1821, and Texas became part of of the newly formed nation called Mexico. Since many people still were fearful of living in this unsettled land, the Mexican government allowed American citizens to immigrate to Texas and by 1835 many American citizens lived in Texas. The American residents greatly outnumbered the Mexican residents. After Santa Ana dissolved the new Mexican constitution, turmoil spread through the land. The Texans revolted and attempted to leave Mexico to form a new state called the Republic of Texas. In 1845, Texas joined the United States becoming the 28^th State. However keep in mind that from 1846-1848 The Mexican-American war was also occurring over territory in Southern California, New Mexico, Arizona and they also helped the US government helped the Texans win their independence. This war ended with the borders being settled at everything North of the Rio Grande belonging to the US and south of the river belongs to Mexico and that Mexico would give up Texas. In addition the US would pay Mexico $18 million dollars. These outcomes were written in The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.

Texas history is not finished there because during the civil war era it also played a role. More drama would occur during the civil war period over state vs federal control and Texas would then join the Confederate cause to support greater state control.

Summary:

Back to the Alamo, what was it and how does it fit into this time period? This was the first mission built in San Antonio built by Spain. It was the site where the Texan people revolted against President Santa Ana and sought independence from Mexico to form the Republic of Texas. A 13 day assault happened here with intense gun fire and battles. Many citizens stayed safe in the Alamo during the battle and it was the strong fortress of the city. This was one of the many battles that led to end of the revolution and led to victory for the Texans. It is now one of the most visited tourist sites in Texas because of it revolutionary history. The Alamo’s story has been told and retold through novels, movies and songs.