Learning Objectives

In general, after you finish reading and studying this chapter, you should understand the following:

• the roots of Texas government and politics, focusing on the land and people of Texas and how these people have historically influenced and continue to influence their government and politics
• the ideological context for Texas politics and government, analyzing how ideas Texans share with other Americans have been modified by Texas's unique experience
• the Texas economy and its evolution from a colonial, land-based economy to a modern, information-based economy
• wealth and poverty in Texas and how those factors influence government and politics in the state