Stephen F. Austin's Arrest in Saltillo: The Political Context of 1834

Stephen F. Austin, "Father of Texas," was arrested in Saltillo, Coahuila y Tejas in January 1834 on orders of President Antonio López de Santa Anna.

Background

• Texas was part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas.
• Austin traveled to Mexico City (1833) to petition for separate statehood for Texas.
• He wrote a letter suggesting Texans organize a separate state government if Mexico City didn't act—a letter intercepted by Santa Anna's government.

Arrest and Imprisonment

• Charged with treason/sedition for allegedly inciting revolt.
• Imprisoned in Mexico City (Perote Prison) without trial.
• Released December 1834 under general amnesty; returned to Texas.

Significance

The arrest radicalized Austin. He became a leader of the Texas Revolution (1835–1836), commanding volunteers at the Siege of Béxar and serving as commissioner to the U.S.