Gerald E. Poyo. Tejano Journey 1770-1850. Austin, Texas: University of Texas Press. 1996. Pp. vii, 186. Gerald E. Poyo, the editor of the book Tejano Journey 1770-1850, is currently the Chair of the History Department and teaches courses in Latin American history and immigration at St. Mary University, San Antonio, Texas. Poyo accomplished his Bachelor of Arts at the University of Carolina, and his Masters of Arts in Latin/Latino American history at Texas State University. He furthered his education, completing his Doctorate (Ph.D.) From the University of Florida. Dr. Poyo has experience as a research associate and curator at the University of Texas, Institute of Texan Cultures at San Antonio. He was a member of the faculty at Florida International …show more content…
Tejano families relied on one another for survival. They created Catholic missions and ranches that dominated their economy. They corralled cattle and horses that roamed free on the land, utilizing ranching skills learned from their forbearers. They generally farmed enough food for their immediate family and shared the rest with the community. Their reliance on an economy based on limited resources had a direct influence on their society affecting almost every aspect in which they lived. Social stratification developed within the poor communities with no sign or indication of disparity amongst the varying classes. The cowboys, the farmers, and artisans worked collectively in order to survive and facilitate the community’s …show more content…
Other Tejanos chose to avoid interaction and or conflict with Anglo-Americans distancing themselves in isolated locations. It was clearly evident to the Tejano people that they would have to adapt in order to survive the transition into the Anglo-American system. The Tejano people would never succumb to the subjugation by the Anglo-Americans, they would utilize their strengths and weakness to overwhelm difficult situations. Their efforts would ensure their culture and traditions endured and were not