Spanish Exploration and Missionary Efforts in Early Texas

In 1519, Alonso Álvarez de Pineda explored the Gulf of Mexico, claiming Texas for Spain. Despite efforts to convert and protect the land through missions and presidios, Spanish control was limited. Land grants led to settlements, with some settlers becoming wealthy. By 1800, Texas had a small population. After Mexico's independence in 1821, Texas struggled with its identity, evolving separately from both Spain and Mexico.

Who was the first European to see Texas?

• Coronado

• Cabeza de Vaca

• Alonso Álvarez de Pineda

• José Nicolás Balli

What was the primary goal of the Spanish missions in Texas?

• To find gold and silver

• To build military forts

• To convert Native Americans to Catholicism

• To establish trade routes

What was the Spanish strategy to protect missions in Texas?

• Using well-armed presidios

• Building large walls

• Hiring mercenaries

• Recruiting local tribes

What was a major challenge faced by the Spanish missions in Texas?

• Lack of funding

• Frequent attacks by pirates

• Disease and deprivation

• Competition from French settlers

What was a long-term impact of the Spanish missions in Texas?

• They became major cities

• They established road systems

• They discovered gold mines

• They led to the Spanish-American War

By 1800, what was the approximate population of Texas?

• 20,000 people

• 5,000 people

• 10,000 people

• 1,000 people

Who was known as the first Cattle Queen of Texas?

• Josefa Balli

• Rosa Hinojosa de Balli

• Maria Coronado

• Isabella de Vaca

What was the role of José Nicolás Balli in Texas?

• He developed Padre Island

• He was a Spanish explorer

• He was the first governor of Texas

• He led a rebellion against Spain

What significant event occurred in 1821 affecting Texas?

• Mexico's independence from Spain

• The establishment of the first mission

• The discovery of oil

• The arrival of the first American settlers