Matanza of 1915

In the late 19th and early 20th century, racial tensions near the United

States - Mexico border and the lower Rio Grande Valley erupted into violence.

The change from ranching to commercial agriculture and a shift in racial

hierarchies led to increased discrimination against Mexican Americans and

Mexicans in the region. In addition, economic problems and the Mexican

Revolution increased the immigrant population to Texas. This influx along with

the rise in Anglo immigration to South Texas increased racial tensions.

Law enforcement and vigilante groups used violence and intimidation to quell,

and at times respond to, a growing movement referred to as Revolucion De Texas.

Some Mexicans and Mexican Americans envisioned this movement as a fight against

discrimination, while some in law enforcement perceived it as a threat to new

Anglo migrations in the area. The section of highway between San Benito and

Brownsville was the site of countless killings of prisoners without due

process. One of the first victims was Rudolfo Muniz, who was lynched on this

road on July 29, 1915, while in the custody of local law enforcement. It is

estimated that hundreds, possibly thousands, of Mexican Americans and Mexicans

were killed.

Out of fear, many families fled Brownsville to Matamoros. A contemporary

newspaper editorial referred to this period as the Matanza (Massacre) of 1915.

In 1919, the Texas Legislature conducted a formal investigation into state and

local law enforcement practices. The Texas Rangers were reorganized as a

result. Memories of the Matanza continue through scattered records and oral

tradition, reflecting difficulties in recounting this violent yet pivotal time

in Texas History. (2014).