Published last year (but only now available online) in the East Texas Historical Journal.
Basically, I outline how the filibuster era in Texas history began with smuggling networks developed in the middle/late first decade of the 1800s, as a response to Spain's mercantilist policy. This is part of the broader story I'll cover in my book, tentatively set to appear in January.
Tracing the arc, it goes like this:
Spain has mercantilist policy that oppresses its people - leads to smuggling at a high degree - leads to a Spanish reaction to shut it down - leads to revolutionary activity in Texas - leads to Spain conquering Texas - leads to a massive collapse of Texas' stability (population and economy) - leads to the necessity of importing immigrants - leads to Austin's colony...etc.
You get the picture. The article, which covers this first bit, can be downloaded here. (Takes you to East Texas Historical Association website).
Basically, I outline how the filibuster era in Texas history began with smuggling networks developed in the middle/late first decade of the 1800s, as a response to Spain's mercantilist policy. This is part of the broader story I'll cover in my book, tentatively set to appear in January.
Tracing the arc, it goes like this:
Spain has mercantilist policy that oppresses its people - leads to smuggling at a high degree - leads to a Spanish reaction to shut it down - leads to revolutionary activity in Texas - leads to Spain conquering Texas - leads to a massive collapse of Texas' stability (population and economy) - leads to the necessity of importing immigrants - leads to Austin's colony...etc.
You get the picture. The article, which covers this first bit, can be downloaded here. (Takes you to East Texas Historical Association website).