Stephen F. Austin imprisoned in Mexico City (1834–1835)

Stephen F. Austin, an American-born empresario, traveled to Mexico City in July 1833 to present colonial grievances. The Mexican government arrested him in January 1834, suspecting he was inciting insurrection and encouraging political reform. His imprisonment heightened tensions between Texas settlers and Mexican authorities, leading to his release under bond in December 1834 and full amnesty in July 1835.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. By 1832, Texas colonists were dissatisfied with Mexican governance, prompting Austin to advocate for conciliation. In July 1833, Austin traveled to Mexico City to meet Vice President Valentín Gómez Farías, presenting demands for immigration resumption and tariff exemption. These actions, stemming from conventions in 1832 and 1833, set the stage for his arrest.

Arrest and Charges. Mexican officials arrested Austin in January 1834 in Saltillo, believing he was pushing for Texas independence and inciting insurrection. They suspected he was encouraging political reform and supporting calls for Texas self-government.

Imprisonment and Release. Austin's imprisonment increased tensions between Texas settlers and the Mexican government. He was released under bond in December 1834, required to stay in the Federal District. He was entirely freed under a general amnesty in July 1835, subsequently leaving Mexico to return to Texas via New Orleans in August 1835.

People involved

Sources

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