Immigrants to Mexico begin widespread colonization, resisting control of Mexican government. 1836 Texas wins independence from Mexico. Texas becomes 28th U.S. state. The term manifest destiny is used to justify the annexation of Texas. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
Cowboys increase in western states as former soldiers, seeking work, move west.
Barbed wire invented, providing a cheap alternative to wooden fences. U.S. Congress institutes immigrant quota laws. Border Patrol established to monitor and restrict entry of Mexicans. 1986 U.S. Immigration Reform and Control Act gives legal resident status to immigrants and possibility of citizenship. Vaquero created References J. Beardsley and J. Livingston.