Some history on the development of slavery in Texas.
- Click here for it.
- Click here for the website.
Slavery as an institution in Texas began in Stephen F. Austin's colony. when Stephen Austin was recognized as heir to his father's contract in 1821, each settlers could receive eighty acres of land for each slave brought to Texas.
The institution of slavery in Texas was supported by the legal system. The entire life of the slave was controlled by rules and regulations. In addition to those passed by individual masters for their own plantations there were many local and state laws. The slave had no property rights and no legal rights of marriage and family. Slaveowners had broad powers of discipline subject only to constitutional provisions that slaves be treated "with humanity" and that punishment not extend to the taking of life and limb. A slave had a right to trial by jury and a court-appointed attorney when charged with a crime greater than petty larceny. However, blacks could not testify against whites in court, a prohibition that largely negated their constitutional protection. Although the law contained some recognition of their humanity, Texas's institutions, both social and legal, constantly reminded the black man he was property not a human being.
Relevant links:
- Constitution of the State of Texas.
- African American Laws II: 1839-1846.
- African American Laws III: 1848-1854.
- African American Laws IV: 1855-1864.
