Immigration

Spain needed colonists for its northern frontier.

Mexico continued Spain's colonization policy.

Colonization was carried out by empresarios, or land agents.

U.S. citizens were recruited by empresarios.

The success of the colonization threatened Mexico's hold over Texas.

Ideology

The American Revolution sparked a world-wide republican movement.

The old monarchial system was challenged by radical new ideas.

Revolutions occurred in France and throughout the Americas.

Not everyone favored radical change.

Conflicts broke out between those wanting change and those wanting to maintain the existing social order.

In Mexico, those wanting change were called Federalists and those wanting to maintain the status quo were called Centralists.

Federalist support tended to be strongest in frontier regions like Texas.

Native born Federalist in Texas had much in common ideologically with
immigrants from the United States.

Economic Factors

Mexico retained Spain's colonial system of restrictive trade.

Official ports-of-entry were at Vera Cruz and Acapulco.

Official trade was conducted through Mexico City.

Regions distant from Mexico City resented extra time and taxes imposed on them.

The system promoted political discontent and smuggling.

Texas historically looked to Louisiana for cheaper goods.

Economic ties reinforced the bond with American colonists.

Texas drew American colonists because public land in the U.S. cost $1.25 per acre while land in Texas could be obtained for 12 cents per acre.