LITERATURE PROFESSOR CLARIFIES HISPANIC ROLE IN U.S.

By Dr. Lino García Jr.
Professor Emeritus of Spanish literature
UTRGV

Dear Editor:
The Spanish colonization effort lasted until 1821, when Mexico and the lands comprising almost two-thirds of the present-day USA, to include Texas, New Mexico, California, Nevada, Colorado, Arizona and certain areas north, obtained their independence from Spain.

Before that date, the present state of Texas had been mapped in 1519 by Captain Alonso de Pineda, who traveled along the coast of Texas but never landed.

The distinction of being the first Hispanics to land on Texas soil belongs to Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, who along with Spanish soldiers first stepped on Texas soil on Nov. 6, 1528, thus starting the systematic colonization of Texas by Hispanics.

Beginning in the late 17th century, civilized life, with all of its amenities, cattle drives, farming, hospitals, schools, ranching, banking and all other activities, were part of life for Texas Hispanics, now known as Tejanos.

One important issue to note is the effective Hispanic participation in the American Revolution of 1776, given that many Hispanics served and helped finance the effort.

Vicente Flores and other prominent Tejano ranchers herded their cattle to the shores, helping feed the hungry soldiers fighting the British Army, and in essence distinguishing themselves as true patriots in the fight against England. Gen. Bernardo de Gálvez made his famous “Marcha de Gálvez” in the south, helping defeat the British and thus helping assure the victory of Americans against a common enemy.

Since the start of the Republic, whenever there has been a struggle involving the USA, one can be sure that the Hispanic individual has been or will be there defending our country.