Texas Independence Summary

Texas Independence Overview

• Texas struggled for eight years post-1836, facing threats from Mexico regarding its sovereignty.

• Mexico viewed Texas as a rebellious province and threatened war if the U.S. supported it.

• Texans maintained a costly military due to being outnumbered by Mexican forces, fearing further attacks.

Foreign Relations and Treaties

• Texas sought support from Britain and France for protection against potential Mexican aggression.

• Treaties were signed with France, Holland, and Belgium in 1839-1840.

• Britain showed interest in an independent Texas to counter U.S. expansion and protect its own territories.

British Interests in Texas

• A puppet Texas controlled by Britain could be used against the U.S.

• Both British abolitionists and merchants eyed Texas politically and economically for different reasons:

  • Abolitionists aimed to disrupt slavery in the U.S.

  • Merchants saw Texas as a free-trade area to lessen dependence on American cotton sources.