The People of Colonial Texas Lesson 3 The Mexican National Era

Who were the men and women of Stephen F. Austin’s first colony? Guiding Question 1 Who were the men and women of Stephen F. Austin’s first colony?

THE OLD 300 Austin began with 300 original families – The old 300. Farmers from Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Missouri. 69 of these families were also slaveholders. Mostly along the Brazos, Colorado and San Jacinto Rivers. Jane Long, widow of James Long was one of the colonists.

The People Who Settled Texas Texas was divided into three departments; Bexar, Brazos and Nacogdoches.

Why They Came Why Requirements: Freedom from Debt Cheap Land Tax Holiday for 10 years Requirements: Good Moral character Christian (Catholic) Spanish Citizens (Speak Spanish)

Slavery Many colonists brought slaves with them to the colonies 1829 – Mexico bans slavery Many runaways come to Texas 1836 – 5000 enslaved African Americans lived in Texas (1/7 of the population)

Women, Children and Everyday Life in Texas Women had a hard life with limited rights Farmwork, maintaining the house Could not vote, hold public office or serve on a jury. Wealthy sent chNo Public Education ildren to U.S. or hired tutors. Colonies might start a school

Answer Guiding Question 1 Who were the men and women of Stephen F. Auston’s first colony?