Texas Colonial Records

Online Records
European settlement in Texas by both the French and the Spanish began in the late 17th century, although no permanent settlements were made until the Spaniards founded San Antonio in 1718. During the 18th century, more Spanish missions were built and many native tribes converted to Christianity. When the United States made the Louisiana Purchase from France in 1803, some American authorities claimed that Texas (New Spain) was part of the purchase. In 1819, a border was agreed upon between Louisiana and Texas. In 1821, following the Mexican War for Independence, Texas became part of Mexico in the state of Coahuila y Tejas. In 1832, Texans began revolts against the Mexican government, and the Republic of Texas was formed in 1836. Attempts to annex Texas to the United States were attempted beginning in 1837, but the annexation did not occur until 1845.