"The annexation of Texas was one of the most momentous actions of the United States government in the antebellum period. Apart from adding what, at that time, was the largest state in the Union by area, it opened up further avenues for Americans' westward expansion, exacerbated tensions with Mexico resulting in the Mexican-American War, and accelerated the regional conflict over slavery. While the familiar concept of "Manifest Destiny" gives the impression that Texas joining the United States was inevitable, the history is ...
Read More
"The annexation of Texas was one of the most momentous actions of the United States government in the antebellum period. Apart from adding what, at that time, was the largest state in the Union by area, it opened up further avenues for Americans' westward expansion, exacerbated tensions with Mexico resulting in the Mexican-American War, and accelerated the regional conflict over slavery. While the familiar concept of "Manifest Destiny" gives the impression that Texas joining the United States was inevitable, the history is much more complicated. This book will explore how the decisions and actions of a variety of political actors in the United States, Texas, Mexico, and Great Britain contributed to Texas' addition to the Union. Of these political actors, the primary focus will be on the presidents of the United States and Texas, John Tyler and Sam Houston, respectively. Examining the annexation of Texas as a two-president decision offers a fresh perspective on this crucial moment in US history. Tyler's ability to push forward his agenda on Texas despite the lack of institutional support shows the strength of premodern executive authority. Houston's actions give us an alternative view of executive authority, since the Texian Republic, including the powers bestowed on the presidency, was structured on the model of its American counterpart. Tyler viewed the decision as beneficial for the United States as a whole, while Houston viewed it as beneficial for Texas-and proponents of slavery, including Tyler's Secretary of State John C. Calhoun, viewed it as a victory for the South and the expansion of slavery."--
Read Less
