The thirteenth chapter of Richardson et al.’s Texas: The lone star state deals with ongoing events on the Western Frontier after the Civil War. The early years saw significant pushback from Indian tribes against the settlers, and despite the military setting up a chain of forts for defenses, it was inadequate protection at first. Meanwhile the federal policy for years was aimed at negotiating peace and treaties, despite evident failures. The raids and massacres grew continuously worse including the Salt Creek Massacre of 1871, which resulted in massive mobilization and retaliation by the U.S. military. The Indian tribes were quickly defeated and accepted peace, but from then on, it was a universal drive to push Indians further back from Texan territory. This took a 3-part approach, each differing in effectiveness – 1) the military, 2) the rangers, and 3) buffalo hunters. Military was for massive resistance and attacks, rangers made raids extremely dangerous for the Indians, while buffalo hunters massively eliminated the living creatures that were both sacred to the tribes as well as their primary methods of survival. These conflicts were both necessary but extremely violent and devastating as the Indian civilization was being eliminated.
With the Indians being driven out, it provided an opportunity for Texans to settle in the region. Their economic growth and resources stemmed from farming as well as the rapidly growing industry of cattle. Representing a symbolic period in Texan history, the ‘Cattle Kingdom’ was formed in the West and South of Texas. Ranching was established, and along with its development transportation systems to the region expanded as well as efforts to establish reliable water supply. Cattle drives became prevalent, driving the massive cattle to the Northern markets. Ranging established its own unique subculture in Texas with cowboys and other aspects but was a critical contributor to the growth and prosperity of the state in this post-war period (Richardson et al., 2010). The three main ideas of this chapter are conflict with the Indians, the systematic eradication of Native American tribes, and the cattle-focused economy of West Texas.
References
Richardson, R. N., Anderson, A., Wintz, C. D., & Wallace, E. (2010). Texas: The lone star state (10th ed). Routledge.