Texas Missions
The Spanish missions in Texas comprise of a series of religious outposts established by Spanish Catholic Dominicans, Jesuits, and Francisians to spread the christian doctrine among the local Native Americans, but with the added benefit of giving Spain a toehold in the frontier land. The missions introduced European livestock, fruit, vegetables, and industry to Texas region. In addition to the Presidio (fort) and Peublo (town), the mission was one of the three major agencies employed by the Spanish crown to extend its borders and consolidate its colonial territories. In all, twenty-six missions were maintained for different lengths of time within the further boundaries of the state.