Forts of Texas

The Forts of Texas include a number of historical and operational military installations. For over two hundred years, various groups fought over access to or control over the region that is now Texas. Possession of the region was claimed and disputed by the European powers of Spain and France, and the continental countries of Mexico, the United States, the Republic of Texas, and the Confederate States of America. Ownership of specific lands were claimed and disputed by different ethnic groups, including numerous Native American tribes, Mexican residents, Anglo- and African-American settlers, and European immigrants. Access to and control of resources were claimed and disputed by various economic groups, including indigenous hunter/gatherers, farmers, herders, ranchers, colonists, settlers, buffalo hunters, traders, bandits, smugglers, pirates, and revolutionaries. Over the centuries, claims and disputes were enforced by Native American warriors, Spanish conquistadors, French cavaliers, Texas Rangers, local militias, and uniformed regular army regiments of Spain, Mexico, Texas, the United States, and the Confederacy.

Many military camps, barracks, fortified trading posts, palisades, , blockhouses, strongholds, and fortifications were built to establish, defend, or dispute claims to the area.

The southwestern region of North America has been inhabited for many centuries. San Marcos Springs in Central Texas is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas of North America. There is evidence of migrations and displacements of peoples in the prehistoric era. However, no evidence has been found of fortifications built by early Native Americans. Texas derives its name from that of a Native American tribe noted for its friendliness. The Texas state motto is "Friendship".

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