Texas Independence 1836: Slavery Expansion Debate — Reading Comprehension

The Texas Revolution of 1836 was not only about independence from Mexico. It was also a struggle over the future of slavery in North America. This conflict highlighted deep disagreements between Mexican leaders and American settlers, known as Anglo colonists, who had moved to Mexican Texas in the early 1800s.

Mexico won its independence from Spain in 1821 and soon passed laws to limit and eventually abolish slavery. In contrast, many Anglo settlers, led by men like Stephen F. Austin, wanted to keep slavery legal so they could grow cash crops like cotton. These settlers argued that slavery was essential to their economic success, while Mexican officials believed it violated the nation's ideals of freedom and equality. This difference in beliefs created growing tension between the two groups.

For example, the 1824 Mexican Constitution stated, "No person shall be born a slave in this republic." This law threatened the economic model of many Texas settlers. Some American colonists tried to get around these laws by calling enslaved people "indentured servants," but Mexican authorities saw through this strategy and passed even stricter anti-slavery laws by 1829.

The issue of slavery was not the only cause of conflict. Mexican leaders also wanted to control immigration and enforce their laws, including requiring loyalty to the Catholic Church. However, for many Anglo settlers, the right to own enslaved people became a symbol of their independence and identity. Some Tejanos—Texans of Mexican descent—supported independence, but for different reasons. They were frustrated by the distant Mexican government's weak protection and high taxes, not the slavery issue.

Enslaved people in Texas had their own perspective, often left out of official histories. For them, Mexican anti-slavery laws brought hope. Some enslaved people fled to Mexican army units or crossed the Rio Grande, seeking freedom. This shows how the struggle over Texas was also a fight over human rights, not just territory or political power.

As tensions rose, the Mexican government sent troops to enforce its laws. In 1835, open fighting broke out. The Texas Declaration of Independence, signed on March 2, 1836, listed the "protection of property"—a coded reference to slavery—among its main reasons for breaking away. After a series of battles, the Texans, led by Sam Houston, won a decisive victory at San Jacinto. Mexico was forced to recognize Texas as independent, but the debate over slavery continued to shape the region.

In summary, the Texas Revolution was fueled by both a desire for self-government and a conflict over slavery. While some saw this as a heroic struggle for freedom, others recognized the contradiction: Texas fought for liberty while defending an unfree system. The consequences were profound. Texas remained an independent republic for nearly a decade before joining the United States, where the slavery debate continued and eventually led to the Civil War.

Interesting Fact: Interesting Fact: Mexico's anti-slavery laws made it a destination for many enslaved people seeking freedom, decades before the U.S. Civil War.

Who led Anglo settlers in Texas?

What did Mexico ban in 1824?

Which battle secured Texas independence?

Why did many settlers want slavery?

What did some enslaved people do?

Why did some Tejanos support independence?

Texas joined the U.S. immediately after independence. True or false?

What does "contradiction" mean?