Texas Declaration of Independence

Definition

The Texas Declaration of Independence was a document adopted on March 2, 1836, by the delegates at the Convention of 1836 in Washington-on-the-Brazos, declaring Texas as an independent republic from Mexico. This declaration marked a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution, articulating grievances against Mexican rule and asserting the right of Texans to self-governance. It also set the stage for future relations between Texas and the United States, ultimately leading to Texas's annexation as a state.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The declaration was influenced by ongoing tensions between Anglo settlers and the Mexican government, particularly regarding issues like land rights and governance.
2. The Texas Declaration of Independence cited specific grievances against Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna, such as his centralist policies and military actions against Texans.
3. Signers of the declaration included prominent figures like Sam Houston, Stephen F. Austin, and William B. Travis, who played key roles in the Texas Revolution.
4. The document was adopted at a time when the Texian army was engaged in battles with Mexican forces, highlighting the urgency for independence.
5. The declaration not only proclaimed independence but also called for a new government based on democratic principles and individual rights, laying the foundation for the Republic of Texas.

Review Questions

• What were the main grievances listed in the Texas Declaration of Independence against the Mexican government, and how did they reflect the conditions in Texas at that time?
  • The Texas Declaration of Independence highlighted grievances such as lack of representation, centralist policies imposed by Santa Anna, and military oppression against Texan settlers. These grievances reflected a broader discontent among Anglo settlers who felt marginalized under Mexican rule. The desire for self-governance and rights similar to those in the United States drove many to seek independence as a solution to their conflicts with the Mexican government.
• Discuss how the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence influenced the outcome of the Texas Revolution and its implications for U.S.-Texas relations.
  • The adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence galvanized support for the Texian cause and unified various factions within Texas against Mexican rule. It provided a clear statement of intent and legitimacy to their fight for independence, which culminated in key victories such as the Battle of San Jacinto. Furthermore, this declaration laid important groundwork for future negotiations regarding Texas's annexation to the United States, as it showcased Texans' desire for self-determination and their alignment with American ideals.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Texas Declaration of Independence on both Texas and U.S. history, particularly regarding issues of sovereignty and expansion.
  • The Texas Declaration of Independence had lasting effects on both Texas and U.S. history by establishing a precedent for territorial expansion and sovereignty movements. Following its adoption, Texas became a republic before eventually being annexed by the United States in 1845, which heightened tensions over slavery and territorial claims leading up to the Mexican-American War. The declaration also fueled discussions around national identity and self-determination that would resonate throughout American history, influencing future independence movements and shaping U.S. expansionist policies.

Related terms

Texas Revolution:

A rebellion from 1835 to 1836 in which Texas colonists fought for independence from Mexican rule, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Texas.

Republic of Texas:

An independent sovereign nation that existed from 1836 to 1845, following the Texas Declaration of Independence, before it was annexed by the United States.

Annexation:

The process of incorporating a territory into an existing political entity, such as a country or state; in this case, Texas's incorporation into the United States in 1845.