Stephen F. Austin

Profession: Founder of Texas

Nationality:

Biography: Stephen F. Austin was an American settler known as the 'Father of Texas' for his role in founding the state. Austin brought several hundred families with their slaves to the Tejas region in 1825 after inheriting an empresario grant from Spain, which gave him the right to settle there.

Austin convinced a number of American settlers to move with him, totalling 300 families in the first migration. This group established a settlement in the territory, and initially maintained friendly relations with the Mexican government.

When dissatisfaction with the Mexican government boiled over and resulted in the Texas Revolution, Austin led the Texas forces in the early Siege of Béxar. While a series of setbacks followed this, the Texans would ultimately win their independence after the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836.

Subsequently Austin went on to serve as a commissioner to the United States, then after an unsuccessful campaign for President of Texas was appointed Secretary of State for the republic by the victorious Sam Houston.

Born: November 3, 1793
Birthplace: Austinville, Virginia, USA
Star Sign: Scorpio

Died: December 27, 1836 (aged 43)
Cause of Death: Pneumonia

Historical Events

1821-01-17 Mexico permits Moses Austin and 300 US families to settle in Texas. After his death his son Stephen leads a colony to Texas.
1823-01-03 Stephen F. Austin receives a grant of land in Texas from the government of Mexico.
1834-01-03 The government of Mexico imprisons Stephen F. Austin in Mexico City.