Texas Declaration of Independence: March 2, 1836

On March 2, 1836, Texas declared its independence from Mexico, marking the birth of the Republic of Texas. This pivotal event occurred during a period of intense conflict and political upheaval, both within the region and between the settlers and the Mexican government.

Context Leading to Independence

• Mexican Colonization Laws: In the early 1820s, Mexico, having gained independence from Spain, encouraged settlement in its northern territories, including Texas, by offering land grants to settlers, primarily from the United States. This led to a significant influx of Anglo-American settlers.

• Cultural and Political Tensions: As the Anglo-American population grew, cultural and political tensions emerged. The settlers often clashed with Mexican authorities over issues such as language, religion, and governance. The Mexican government’s attempts to centralize control and enforce laws, such as the prohibition of slavery, further exacerbated these tensions.

• Santa Anna’s Centralist Policies: In the 1830s, Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna shifted from federalist to centralist policies, abolishing the Constitution of 1824 and reducing the autonomy of Mexican states, including Texas. This move was met with resistance and unrest among Texan settlers.

The Convention of 1836

• Meeting at Washington-on-the-Brazos: On March 1, 1836, delegates from various Texan settlements convened at Washington-on-the-Brazos. The convention was tasked with drafting a declaration of independence and establishing a provisional government.

• Drafting the Declaration: The declaration, primarily authored by George C. Childress, was adopted on March 2, 1836. It outlined grievances against the Mexican government, citing violations of rights and the failure to provide protection and representation.

Key Provisions of the Declaration

• Grievances Against Mexico: The declaration listed numerous grievances, including the denial of trial by jury, the dissolution of state legislatures, and the imposition of military rule.

• Assertion of Rights: It asserted the Texans’ right to self-governance and independence, drawing parallels to the American Revolution.

• Formation of a Republic: The declaration proclaimed the establishment of the Republic of Texas, asserting its sovereignty and independence from Mexico.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

• The Texas Revolution: The declaration was a catalyst for the Texas Revolution, a military conflict between Texan settlers and Mexican forces. Key battles, such as the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, followed, ultimately leading to Texan victory and independence.

• Recognition and Annexation: The Republic of Texas existed as an independent nation until 1845, when it was annexed by the United States, becoming the 28th state. This annexation contributed to tensions leading to the Mexican-American War.

• Legacy: The Texas Declaration of Independence is a significant event in both Texan and American history, symbolizing the struggle for self-determination and the complex interactions between different cultural and political entities in North America.

The declaration remains a foundational document in Texas history, celebrated annually on Texas Independence Day.