Jack Jackson chronicles in rich detail the hundred years of Spanish 
ranching that came before Mexico, and subsequently Texas, gained 
independence. From the introduction of livestock into the province 
by various early entradas (expeditions), to the first big roundup in 
1787, and beyond, he traces the development of the range and of 
cattle working. He shows the feral increase of the early herds, the 
conflicts over ownership of the wild animals (mesteños), the 
emergence of Spanish "dynasties," and the attempts of colonial 
governments to regulate the industry.

    Although some scholars have attributed western ranching practices 
largely to the influence of Anglo settlers, Jackson meticulously traces 
both stock and stock raising techniques to their origins in Spanish 
Texas. Describing the founding of the first Anglo ranches in Texas, 
he carefully shows their adaptation of Hispanic cattle culture in the 
brands used, the market exploited, and the emerging lifestyle.

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The late JACK JACKSON, a freelance writer and illustrator, grew 
up on one of the historic South Texas ranches. His award-winning 
books include Indian Agent: Peter Ellis Bean in Mexican Texas 
and Almonte's Texas.


Number Eighteen: Centennial Series of the Association of Former 
Students, Texas A&M University


What people are saying about this book

"[Jackson] paints the Spanish era in broader detail. A picture emerges 
of a land with its own importance, of a people with fierce and 
enduring energy and courage, of vaqueros and rancheros, priests, 
soldiers, Indians, and settlers who gave Texas its rich cultural and 
romantic heritage. . . . very impressive history."—True West