The area known as Texas today was formally designated as Coahuila y Tejas under Mexican rule beginning in 1821, although settlers living in the province often referred to it simply as Texas.
Early Naming Conventions of the Texas Region
When Mexico gained control of the vast land in 1821, the administrative naming of the territory that encompasses present-day Texas underwent a significant change. The newly established Mexican government eventually consolidated this area into a larger province.
The Province of Coahuila y Tejas
The formal name given to this significant province was Coahuila y Tejas. This designation recognized the unification of the historical region of Texas with the neighboring state of Coahuila, forming a single administrative entity within Mexico. This period marked a crucial phase in the region's history, setting the stage for future developments.
The Common Name: Texas
Despite the official designation, settlers residing in this province frequently shortened its name, commonly referring to the area as just Texas. This widespread informal usage highlights how the name "Texas" was already ingrained in the local vernacular and identity, even before it became an independent republic or a U.S. state. This common understanding of the name persisted and ultimately influenced the future nomenclature of the region.
Historical Context and Key Events
The period under Mexican control, particularly as the province of Coahuila y Tejas, was fraught with tension between the Mexican government and the growing number of American settlers. This tension eventually escalated into a full-blown conflict.
- 1821: Mexico takes control of the land, eventually naming the province Coahuila y Tejas.
- 1835: Settlers living in the province, often called Texas, rebel against Mexican rule, initiating the Texas Revolution.
- 1836: A pivotal moment in the revolution, the Battle of the Alamo, results in a devastating defeat for the rebels at the hands of the Mexican army. The Alamo, originally a mission, is located in San Antonio.
The events following the formation of Coahuila y Tejas, and the subsequent rebellion often referred to as the Texas Revolution, were instrumental in shaping the geopolitical landscape of North America and directly led to the establishment of the Republic of Texas.
