Today we’re going to look a little closer at the grievances the Texans had with Mexico that lead them to claim independence. We’re also going to spend some time exploring Washington town, which is where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed.
Supplies:
- Printer
- Paper (2)
- Scissors
- Glue
“On March 1 George C. Childress presented a resolution calling for independence. It was adopted by the congress and the chairman of the convention appointed Childress to head a committee of five to draft a declaration of independence. When the committee met that evening, Childress drew from his pocket a statement he had brought from his visit to U.S. President Jackson in Tennessee that followed the outline and main features of the United States Declaration of Independence. The very next day, March 2, the delegates unanimously adopted Childress’s suggestion for independence. Ultimately fifty-eight members signed the document. Thus was born the Republic of Texas. ”
- So, what exactly were the grievances, or complaints, that the Texans had about Mexico? Today we’re going to read a modern translation of those grievances.
- -Print out the list of Texas’ Grievances Against Mexico.
- -Once you’ve read through the grievances, cut them out and glue them on a piece of paper in order from most important to least important in your opinion. There is no right or wrong because you get to decide. (It’s ok to ask if you need help understanding what they mean!)
-With a parent’s permission, download the Texas 1836 app onto a phone or tablet. While this app is best used while visiting Washington on the Brazos, it can also be explored virtually by clicking “Offsite Tour” and heading to each of the buildings and “talking” to each of the characters walking around. Make sure you’re in a good spot to turn around, as this app has the ability for you to turn 360* to look around.
Have you ever visited Washington on the Brazos?
Free Fun Texas History 