Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

What was President Sam Houston's main concern regarding land grants?

1. Potential conflicts with Native American territories

2. Inequity in land distribution

3. Conflicting grants with prior Spanish and Mexican titles

4. Overpopulation in Texas

The correct answer is: Conflicting grants with prior Spanish and Mexican titles

President Sam Houston's primary concern regarding land grants revolved around the complexities introduced by conflicting grants that arose from prior Spanish and Mexican land titles. Following the Texas Revolution, when Texas gained independence from Mexico, many land claims made during the Spanish and Mexican periods remained unresolved. This created a significant legal and administrative challenge for the new government. Houston recognized that overlapping titles could lead to disputes and unrest among settlers, as well as complicate the process of establishing governance and stability in the newly independent territory. The presence of these conflicting grants could create a sense of insecurity among landowners and hinder economic development. Therefore, addressing these issues became essential to ensuring a smooth transition and fostering confidence among Texan settlers in their land ownership rights, which was crucial for the founding of a stable society and government in the area.