The Treaties of Velasco

The Treaties of Velasco

The Treaty

What?

The Texas Revolution, a conflict between Texas settlers and the Mexican government, ended with the signing of two important documents known as the Treaties of Velasco in 1836. These treaties played a crucial role in shaping the future of Texas and its relationship with Mexico.

The first treaty, known as the Public Treaty of Velasco, was signed on May 14, 1836. This treaty was made public and outlined several key requirements. It stated that Mexico would recognize Texas as an independent republic. Additionally, it called for the withdrawal of Mexican troops from Texas and the establishment of the Rio Grande as the southern border of the new republic. The treaty also included a provision that required Santa Anna, the Mexican president and general, to return to Mexico and refrain from further military actions against Texas.

The Public Treaty

Multiple Choice

When was the Public Treaty of Velasco signed?

• May 14, 1836

• June 14, 1836

• April 14, 1836

• March 14, 1836

Multiple Choice

What was one of the main requirements outlined in the Public Treaty of Velasco?

• Texas would join the United States

• Mexico would recognize Texas as an independent republic

• Santa Anna would become the president of Texas

• The border would be set at the Nueces River

Multiple Choice

According to the treaty, which river was established as the southern border of Texas?

• The Nueces River

• The Brazos River

• The Colorado River

• The Rio Grande

In contrast, the second treaty, often referred to as the Secret Treaty of Velasco, contained more controversial terms and was not made public until later. This treaty was signed on the same day, May 14, 1836, but it outlined specific conditions for Santa Anna's release. One of the main requirements was that Santa Anna would not only recognize Texas independence but would also work to persuade the Mexican government to accept this recognition. Furthermore, he was to ensure that Mexican troops would not return to Texas, and he was expected to support the establishment of peaceful relations between Mexico and Texas.

The Secret Treaty

Multiple Choice

What was one of the main requirements Santa Anna had to fulfill according to the treaty?

• Pay reparations to Texas

• Surrender all Mexican weapons

• Leave Texas immediately

• Recognize Texas independence

Multiple Choice

According to the treaty, Santa Anna was expected to…

• Support peaceful relations between Mexico and Texas

• Give up his military position

• Move to Texas permanently

• Share Mexican military secrets

Multiple Choice

What was Santa Anna required to do regarding Mexican troops?

• Train them in Texas

• Replace their commanders

• Move them to California

• Ensure they would not return to Texas

Tensions rise

Secret treaty issue

​The secrecy surrounding the second treaty raised many questions and concerns. Critics argued that the terms were too lenient and could potentially undermine Mexico's authority. The Mexican government, upon learning of the treaties, refused to recognize them, believing that Santa Anna had acted under duress while in captivity. This led to ongoing tensions between Texas and Mexico, as both sides interpreted the treaties differently.

Poll

What do you think? Do you believe that the Mexican Response to these treaties will lead to more conflict in the future?

• Yes

• No

• Maybe