Flashback to February 14

American History

1836

Stephen Fuller Austin founder of state of Texas, dies at age 43.

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Stephen Fuller Austin, also known as the ‘Father of Texas,’ is a notable figure in the annals of American history. His death on December 27, 1836, at the youthful age of 43, marked the end of an era that was pivotal for Texas in becoming the state that we perceive today.

Stephen Fuller Austin, born on November 3rd, 1793, started his journey early with a single objective – to establish political and cultural sovereignty for Texas. His lavishly astounding contributions, relentless perseverance, and unequivocal commitment laid the groundwork for the eventual formation of the state of Texas.

Austin’s journey to Texas began in 1821 when he inherited a land grant from his father, Moses Austin. Endowed with his father’s legacy, Austin began southern migration that would forever change the course of history. With 300 families known as the “Old Three Hundred,” Austin led a successful colonization attempt of a Mexican province. This act sewed the seeds of what we now recognize as the bustling state of Texas.

Stephen Fuller Austin, despite facing numerous threats and unfathomable obstacles, stood at the helm to navigate through the tumultuous political latitudes in and around Texas. Austin established himself as a diplomat, adhering to the Mexican governing laws, and installed a centralized form of government. He ensured that proper law enforcement agencies were in place and the land was divided appropriately among settlers. In essence, he spearheaded and nurtured the formation of civic society in this untamed region.

However, Austin’s ambitious vision for Texan independence began to clash with the changing political dynamics of Mexico. In 1833, Austin was imprisoned in Mexico City on suspicion of inciting insurrection. Nevertheless, he continued his struggle and on his release in July 1835, Austin, undeterred, returned to Texas and focused his energies on the impending revolution.

His relentless struggle against Mexican rule eventually led the foundation for the renowned Texas Revolution of 1835. Austin’s diplomatic aptitude was instrumental in garnering support from the United States which played an instrumental role in achieving Texan independence in 1836.

Just three months later, on December 27, 1836, panic dropped over the newly formed republic as Stephen Fuller Austin surrendered to his gruesome illness. Not only did he lose his chance to experience the promising future of the state he spent his life creating, but Texas also tragically lost its greatest ally and proponent.

Austin’s death sent shockwaves through the newly formed state and the entire nation. Tributes poured in from every corner of the country, memorializing the invaluable contributions of this formidable individual. His untimely death at the age of 43 was indeed a huge setback for Texas and all those who revered him.

Today, Austin’s legacy lives on through the numerous venerated sites and memorials dedicated to honoring his life, the most prominent being the state’s capital, Austin. The city stands tall as a testament to Austin’s enduring vision and unyielding spirit.

To sum up, Stephen Fuller Austin was more than just a founder – he was the relentless spirit that gave birth to the state of Texas. His journey till the day of his death on December 27, 1836, was nothing short of a testament to his passion, perseverance, and love for the people and land of Texas. His passing marked the closing chapter of a significant era, leaving behind a sterling legacy that continues to live on, more than two centuries later. His life will forever remind us of the power of relentless pursuit and unwavering commitment in shaping a nation’s destiny.

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