The Texas Rangers, officially?established in 1835, are one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in North America, with a history spanning nearly 200 years.?Initially formed to protect settlers on the Texas frontier, they evolved into a statewide law enforcement agency, playing roles in military conflicts, law enforcement, and border security.?
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Early History (1823-1835):
1823:
Stephen F. Austin?hired frontiersmen as "Rangers" for protection against Native American attacks, marking the unofficial beginning of the Rangers.?
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1835:
The Texas Congress formally established the Texas Rangers, initially as a body of 56 men divided into three companies, tasked with guarding the frontier.?
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The Republic of Texas Era:
The Rangers played a crucial role in the?Texas Revolution?and the subsequent Republic of Texas, serving as scouts, spies, and defenders of the frontier.
They faced challenges from Native American tribes and Mexican forces, and their numbers fluctuated due to funding and political considerations.?
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Statehood and Beyond:
The Rangers continued their service after Texas joined the United States in 1845, participating in the?Mexican-American War.
Throughout the 19th century, they were involved in various conflicts and law enforcement operations, including fighting cattle rustlers, chasing outlaws, and patrolling the Texas-Mexico border.?
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Modern Era:
In 1935, the Texas Rangers became a division of the?Texas Department of Public Safety?(TxDPS), solidifying their role as a statewide law enforcement agency.?
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Today, they are known for their investigative work, crime prevention, and law enforcement duties, upholding the legacy of the Rangers as a symbol of Texas history and law enforcement.?