Rapid Population Growth in Texas from 1870 to 1890

Abstract

Texas Population Growth between 1870 and 1890. In 1870 to 1890, Texas, population increased rapidly since it rose from 1591749 to approximately 2235527. The major reason for the population increase was the natural growth to the existing resident. For natural growth to occur, the number of births exceeded the number of deaths. Secondly, other people from the neighboring states migrated to the South of Texas. More immigration was also recorded especially by foreigners from Mexico and German who constituted approximately 179357. Industrial development in Texas also led to an increase in population in Texas, where a 7.2% increase was noted. Industrial development led to an improvement in the economy, where the citizens acquired more wealth by selling supplies, and providing professional services to the people who migrated to Texas. Advanced settlement was also noted in Texas as a rest of railroads construction and cattle rearing increase. Railroad construction led to an increase in agriculture activities and more growth of the Texas commercial center which further favored population increase (Bogue, et al, 2010).. Texas citizens mostly focused on cotton farming which was then shipped to New England. Money earned from agriculture and economic activities, was used to improve the standards of living, which further led to an increase in the population. Existence of churches also fostered an increase in the population because they promoted stability in the world. These churches also encouraged education and essence of literacy. The economic and social aspects discussed above led to a rise in politics where the Democrats controlled the country. Political stability also favored population growth in Texas since the leaders were in of land policies and railroad regulation (Reed, 1946). In summary, population growth in Texas was because of natural growth, immigration and increase in railroad constructions. Other supporting factors were political changes such...