Sam Houston was elected as the first president of the Republic of Texas in 1836. His goals were to maintain peace with American Indian tribes, remain vigilant against Mexico, and pursue annexation by the United States. However, he faced unrest in the Texas army which threatened the new government, economic problems due to a financial crisis, and conflicts with American Indians as settlers moved onto tribal lands. To solve these problems, Houston reduced the army size, collected taxes, negotiated treaties with Indian tribes, and established forts along the frontier.

1. Chapter 12: A New Nation Section 2: Houston’s First Term

5. Houston’s Administration Secretary of State: Stephen F. Austin Secretary of the Treasury: Henry Smith

6. Houston’s Administration Secretary of the Navy Samuel Rhodes Fisher Secretary of War Thomas J. Rusk

28. Problem Solution/Action Unruly Army Debt Lack of clear land policy Conflict with Indians