When did the Spanish come to East Texas?
In 1690, Spanish missions spread to East Texas after news surfaced of La Salle’s French settlements in the area. The Spanish settlers there encountered the Caddo Indians, who they called “Tejas” (derived from the Caddoan word “Tay-yas”, meaning friend).
Where did the Spanish establish missions in Texas?
From East Texas, Franciscan priests and Spanish soldiers then established new missions and presidios along the Rio Grande and in West Texas. The Mission Espada Chapel, in San Antonio, is a well-preserved example of Spanish colonial architecture.
When did Spain lose its possession of Texas?
Tensions between the two nations led to episodes like the Gutiérrez-Magee Expedition. The Adams-Onis Treaty in 1819 ended this border dispute, but Spain lost possession of Texas in 1821 after Mexico won its independence from Spain.
Why was Texas important to the Spanish Empire?
On a broad geopolitical scale, the Spanish Crown saw Texas as a valuable buffer zone against other European imperial powers in North America. Building plenty of successful settlements, such as San Antonio, would strengthen the Crown’s claim to Texas.
When did Spain discover French settlement in Texas?
While unable to fulfill their original goal of locating the French settlement, the expeditions did provide Spain a deeper understanding of the geography of the Gulf Coast region. The last expedition, in 1689, discovered a French deserter living in southern Texas with the Coahuiltecans.
Who was the last conquistador to settle in Texas?
Juan de Oñate would be the last of the conquistadors to traverse present-day Texas. Unlike his predecessors, his explorations would have a direct and lasting impact on the region. In early 1598, Juan de Oñate led an expedition to settle present-day New Mexico.
Why was Texas important to the Spanish Crown?
The missions and presidios were, however, a success for the Spanish crown in other important ways. Throughout the 1700s, Spanish Texas served as a buffer protecting the wealthier provinces to the south from both rival Europeans and independent Indian peoples.