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After Texas became a republic, many Texans wanted to see Texas become part of the U.S. Using what you have learned, answer the following questions.

Part 1: Identify up to three significant reasons why Texans wanted to join the U.S.

1. Economic opportunities: One significant reason why Texans wanted to join the U.S. was the desire for better economic opportunities. As an independent republic, Texas faced numerous challenges in developing its economy, including a lack of infrastructure, limited trade options, and difficulties securing foreign recognition and investment. Joining the U.S. offered the promise of a larger market for Texas goods, access to established transportation networks, and the potential for increased foreign trade.

2. Security and defense: Another important reason for Texans' desire to join the U.S. was the need for enhanced security and defense. As a young and vulnerable nation, Texas faced multiple threats, including the potential for invasion from Mexico, conflicts with native tribes, and the risk of international interventions. By joining the U.S., Texans hoped to benefit from the military protection and stability provided by a larger and more powerful nation.

3. Political stability and governance: Texans also sought political stability and effective governance by joining the U.S. As an independent republic, Texas struggled with internal divisions and power struggles, making it challenging to establish a cohesive and stable government. Joining the U.S. offered the prospect of a well-structured system of governance, a stable legal framework, and access to the democratic institutions and processes that were already established in the United States.

Part 2: What does the U.S. annexation of Texas suggest about Texas identity in the 1840s? Answer in 2–3 sentences.

The annexation of Texas into the United States suggests that Texas identified itself as a distinct entity, but one that was ready to be assimilated into the larger American identity. By choosing to join the U.S., Texas demonstrated a desire to align itself with the political, economic, and cultural values of the American nation, while also preserving its own unique heritage as a former republic. This suggests that in the 1840s, Texas saw itself as both separate and connected to the United States.

Part 3: How did Texas change after annexation, focusing on the period between 1845 and 1861? Answer in 2–3 sentences.

After annexation, Texas experienced significant changes in various aspects. Economically, the state benefited from increased trade and access to larger markets, leading to a growth in industries such as cotton and ranching. Politically, Texas became part of the United States, adopting its governance structure and participating in national politics. Socially, the influx of settlers from the U.S. led to an increase in population and a diversification of demographics, while also exacerbating tensions between Anglo-Americans and existing Mexican and Native American populations.