Spanish Exploration and Colonization in Texas

Pope Alexander VI Claims All Discovered Countries in the Americas

Jan 1, 1501

This land was all claimed for Spain.

Rodriguez/Chamuscado Spanish Expedition First to travel through El Paso

Jan 1, 1581

This led to the many missions in El Paso.

Antonio de Espejo Describes El Paso

Jan 1, 1583

He described it as having rich soil, a good climate, and that it would be a good place to farm

King Phillip II of Spain Sent Onate to Claim New Mexico

Jan 1, 1595

This led to Onate going off track and ending up in Texas.

Onate Celebrates his Conquered Area

Apr 30, 1598

This area was all around the Rio Grande.

Onate's Expedition Ran into Indians

May 1, 1598

They were armed with bows, but they considered each other “The Peaceful Ones”.

First Mission Established in Texas

Jan 1, 1632

Located near the San Angelo area, it was called San Francisco de la Espada.

Santa Fe Native Americans Revolt

Jan 1, 1680

This led to the Spaish fleeing and taking refuge in the El Paso area.

Franciscan Friars were Petitioned to Build Missions

Jan 1, 1683

These friars lived in the El Paso area and were petitioned by the La Junta pueblos.

Efforts Turned to East Texas

Jan 1, 1690

Instead of being focused on wesrtern areas such as El Paso.

Flood Destroyed Santísma Nombre de María

Jan 1, 1692

The friars returned to San Francisco de los Tejas.

Santisma Nombre de Maria was Abandoned

Jan 1, 1693

Due to illness and hostile natives.

Mission Concepcion Established

Jan 1, 1716

Used to serve as a buffer of the threat of French excursion.

Alamo Established

Jan 1, 1718

Also known as the San Antonio de Valero.

San Jose y San Miquel de Aquayo Established

Jan 1, 1720

Established on the San Antonio River.

Espirtitu Santo Established

Jan 1, 1722

Made as a reaction to French exploration.

Rosario Established

Jan 1, 1754

Made for the coastal Karankawa's.

Mission San Saba Attacked

Mar 16, 1758

2000 Native Americans of mixed tribes surounded the building