USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -The first Spanish-speaking settlers began to group around the San Antonio River in 1718 when the mission and presidio (fort) were established.

Detailed explanation-2: -The first Spanish-speaking settlers established a mission and presidio (fort) around the San Antonio River in 1718. The first settlement, called the Villa de Bexar, was little more than civilian housing for families of soldiers stationed at the presidio.

Detailed explanation-3: -Spain claimed ownership of the territory in 1519, which comprised part of the present-day U.S. state of Texas, including the land north of the Medina and Nueces Rivers, but did not attempt to colonize the area until after locating evidence of the failed French colony of Fort Saint Louis in 1689.

Detailed explanation-4: -The first expeditions to Texas were either accidental or spurred by the desire for riches. Cabeza de Vaca was one of the first Europeans to extensively explore Texas after an accidental landing at Galveston Island. Spanish exploration did not continue until the rumor of riches lured many explorers to Texas.