The Civil War had a devastating impact on the Texas economy. The war disrupted trade, destroyed infrastructure, and led to the emancipation of slaves, who had been a major source of labor for the state's agricultural economy. As a result, the state's economy was in ruins after the war.
Political Reconstruction
After the war, Texas was placed under military occupation by the Union Army. The occupying forces oversaw the process of political Reconstruction, which included the emancipation of slaves, the establishment of a new state constitution that guaranteed civil rights for African Americans, and the election of a new state government.
Social Upheaval
The end of slavery and the influx of freedmen into Texas society caused significant social upheaval. Many white Texans resisted the changes that were taking place, and there was a great deal of racial violence during this period.
Economic Recovery
Despite the challenges, the Texas economy began to recover after the Civil War. The state's natural resources, such as cotton, cattle, and oil, helped to fuel economic growth. By the end of the 19th century, Texas was once again a prosperous state.
Here are some specific details about Texas after the Civil War:
* The population of Texas grew from about 862,000 in 1860 to about 1.5 million in 1870.
* The number of freedmen in Texas increased from about 182,000 in 1860 to about 250,000 in 1870.
* The cotton crop in Texas fell from about 4 million bales in 1860 to about 1 million bales in 1870.
* The number of cattle in Texas increased from about 3 million in 1860 to about 5 million in 1870.
* The first railroad in Texas was built in 1853. By 1870, there were over 1,000 miles of railroad track in the state.
* The University of Texas was founded in 1883.