📖 Reading Passage: Beliefs That Led Texas to Join the Confederacy

In 1861, Texas made the difficult decision to leave the United States and join the Confederate States of America. Several important beliefs and reasons led to this choice.

States' Rights: Many Texans believed that individual states should have the power to make their own decisions without the federal government telling them what to do. They felt the national government was becoming too powerful and controlling.

Economic Concerns: Texas's economy depended heavily on cotton farming and trade with other Southern states. Texans worried that Northern policies would hurt their businesses and way of life. They believed joining the Confederacy would protect their economic interests.

Cultural Connections: Texas shared many cultural similarities with other Southern states, including traditions, values, and social structures. Many Texans felt they had more in common with the South than with the industrial North.

Fear of Change: Some Texans were afraid that the federal government would force unwanted changes on their state. They believed that joining the Confederacy would allow them to preserve their traditional way of life.

On February 23, 1861, Texas voters approved leaving the Union by a vote of 46,129 to 14,697. This decision would lead Texas into four years of civil war.

📚 Part 1: Multiple Choice Questions

✏️ Part 2: Short Answer & Critical Thinking