[Author’s Name]
[Institution’s Name]
Essay on Independence of Texas
During the Viceroyalty, some Americans obtained permission to settle in Texas, which then was part of New Spain. After Independence, United States settlers continued to arrive in the area, and over the years, finally outnumbered the Mexicans living there. They had different customs, spoke English and did not want to be subject to Mexican laws and taxes. Many of them had always proposed separation from Mexico and, in 1835, they declared their independence (Wade, 2001). Santa Anna marched north to reestablish order.
Although his army arrived in very poor condition after crossing the northern deserts, he still managed to win the first battles. However, as he camped on the banks of the San Jacinto River, he was surprised by the Texans and taken prisoner. The war could have continued even though Santa Anna was a prisoner, but he made a pact with the Texan leader in order to regain his liberty; he ordered his second-in-command to retreat with his army. Despite the opposition of the other generals, Vicente Filisola obeyed, and Santa Anna recognized the Independence of Texas.
Another problem came about when France demanded compensation for the damage suffered by French citizens during the numerous Mexican uprisings. Many of the debts they attempted to collect were highly exaggerated. For example, a French baker living in Puebla claimed damages for the cakes he had lost during a riot. For this reason, this conflict is known as the Pastry War.Mexico wanted to pay, but simply did not have any money.
The French therefore bombarded Veracruz in 1838. During these battles, Santa Anna was wounded and lost a leg. There was no money to either pay off the debts or to organize a defence. Mexico was therefore forced to request new loans and pay France an unfair and exaggerated amount (Williams, 2002).......
