A good book, providing a chronological history of Texan independence from Mexico and the politics of becoming a U.S. state. The author, historian H. W. Brands, describes the settling of Texas by American immigrants, the gradual movement towards separation from Mexico, the chaotic fighting for independence, and the convoluted politics surrounding Texas's path to statehood. The book emphasizes the close connections between contemporary American political movements and Texas independence, illustrating how broader political forces and events shaped the region's transformation. Brands centers the story on the key historical figures who were often pulled along by events rather than driving them, offering a nuanced perspective on the interplay between individual agency and historical currents. A great book for understanding the complexities of the Texan path to statehood and the influence of American politics on its independence movement.

I really enjoyed this book. I have been very interested in Texas history since I was old enough to know what I had read. My hero has always been Sam Houston. I cannot explain how much he has inspired me over the years. Thanks Mr Brands for writing this book.

I really, really wanted to give it five stars, but had to ding it a little for the amount of effort it took for me to finish this book. It took three attempts over three years to get through it (although, admittedly, the second attempt was aborted when Hubby took the book with him when he relocated for his new job and I stayed behind for 8 months to finish my teaching contract), but the effort was well worth it.

This book is THE definitive history of Texas from the first steps of Europeans on her fertile soil to the death of Sam Houston in 1863. There is a wealth of information you never hear in History classes, even though Texas history is taught all year in both 4th and 7th grades.

H.W. Brands pulls no punches when recounting the history of principal players in the struggle for Texas independence (even secondary players, such as Andrew Jackson and John Quincy Adams get extensive coverage). The admirable qualities (and, believe it or not, there are some) of Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna are not overlooked. Still, and refreshingly so, Brands does not fall into the trap of post-modern revisionism.

Writing this book was obviously a labor of love, as was reading it. God Bless Texas!

This is a well written book about the history of Texas. The author does a great job of making it not seem like a text book. After recently visiting Austin and San Antonio, it was especially interesting to read.