Texas Crossroads of North America Author:Jesus F. De LA Teja, Paula Mitchell Marks, Ronnie C. Tyler Incorporating the latest scholarship, this text chronicles the development of the political, economic, and social identity of Texas through the unique insight of three authors who most recently served as advisors for the establishment of the new Texas State History Museum in Austin. The text covers the full scope of Spanish exploration and colon... more »ization efforts, as well as the transformation of the Texas economy and society in the 20th century through such factors as oil, federal involvement, and technology. Three themes organize the narrative, demonstrating the multi-faceted culture of the state.The first theme, "Texas as place," presents the state as a crossroads of geographies and cultures, while the second theme "Texas as opportunity," features the progression of visitors, immigrants, and Native Texans as they learn to make use of the resources the region offers. The third theme, "Texas as 'cultural centrifuge'," focuses on the convergence, separation, and emergence of various cultural groups in the state.
Scholarship includes recent research on indigenous populations before and during European contact.
Coverage includes the development of Texas' political, economic, and social identity in the 19th century.