The Mission-Presidio System

Texas History The Spanish and Mexican Eras The Mission-Presidio System
Students learn about the goal and structure of Spanish missions and presidios. Next they explain the role of the missions and presidios in the Texas land conflict between Spain and France. Then they examine the reasons for the decline of these institutions.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Here are the teacher pack items for The Mission-Presidio System:

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Overview

In this experience, students learn about the goal and structure of Spanish missions and presidios. Next they explain the role of the missions and presidios in the Texas land conflict between Spain and France. Then they examine the reasons for the decline of these institutions.

Note that in the experience Spanish Settlement in Texas, students will focus on the historical development of missions.

Objectives:
  • Identify the importance the mission-presidio system had on the conflicting territorial claims between France and Spain.
  • Identify reasons for the decline of the mission-presidio system.


Among the physical remains from the Spanish colonization period in Texas are numerous missions, which were established by religious groups, and presidios—forts used to protect the missions. In this experience you will learn about the role of these two institutions within the colony.


exterior of old stone building with bells

Mission Espada Church, San Antonio


Objectives:
  • Identify the importance the mission-presidio system had on the conflicting territorial claims between France and Spain.
  • Identify reasons for the decline of the mission-presidio system.


Search the Web for an image of a typical fort and upload it to the canvas below.


Look through the images posted by your classmates. What do they have in common?


What conclusions can you make about what makes a “good” fort?

Post your answer

Discuss with students the following points:

  • The word “fort” comes from the Latin root, meaning “strong.”
  • Forts are generally enclosed compounds with high walls to protect the inhabitants. A fort may house civilians or soldiers.


When everyone is ready to continue, unlock the next scene.

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The Mission-Presidio System
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