This research paper discusses the causes, course and consequences of the movement/war for Texan independence. Texan independence came about largely as the result of a clash between centralizing measures taken by the Mexican government and the desire of the settlers, both Anglo-American immigrants and resident tejanos, to preserve their autonomy and land ownership. The main factors which precipitated revolution and war were the unrestrained immigration by Anglo-Americans into Texas as part of the great land rush of 1821-1835; and Mexican President Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's attempt to suppress the Texans militarily in 1835-1836. Other points of friction included American nationalism, religious differences and conflicts over trade. The war for independence lasted less than a year. After the defeat of the Texans by Santa Anna at the Alamo and Goliad, the tide of battle turned in favor of the Texans led by Sam Houston.
Texas independence fused a new Hispanic American culture which was characterized by accommodation and partial assimilation of the Tejano minority and a great deal of Anglo discrimination and abuse and Tejano resentment.
Few Native Americans were directly involved in the war for independence, but some participated in abortive filibustero-independence oriented movements and others as mercenaries. The Cherokees' decision to remain neutral during the war at the behest of Houston helped the Texans. External powers played only a secondary role. The United States provided unofficial assistance to the Republic of Texas which it recognized in 1837. The American annexation of Texas was delayed until 1845 due to the schism in American politics over the extension of slavery. The widespread American belief in its Manifest Destiny to conquer the Southwest and West provided powerful ideological support and motivation behind pro-annexationist sentiment. Great Britain was pro-Mexican during this period but played only a subordin...