The Texas Ranger is one of the most cherished symbols of the Lone Star State. While the Alamo is the undisputed symbol of Texas, the Ranger stands as an enduring symbol of the people of Texas. 19th century Rangers protected their neighbours from Indian attack, fought and died in a war for freedom, and staved off foreign invasion. Few were paid regularly, if at all. Some Rangers died with glory at the Alamo, while many more were wounded, or died, in anonymity at dozens of obscure places. This book by Stephen Hardin charts the history of this remarkable force from the 1820s through to the present day. Originally formed to combat the predatory Comanches, the Rangers served the independent Republic of Texas and then in the Mexican-American war. Some of their most famous captains date from this period: Ben McCulloch, 'Jack' Hayes and Samuel H. Walker. Their later adversaries ranged from Mexican bandits to hardened criminals such as John Wesley Hardin and Bonnie and Clyde. Today the Texas Rangers are a modern organisation and represent the elite of Texas law enforcement. Text by Stephen Hardin with illustrations by Richard Hook.

Contents

• The Early Years 1823-1839
• Battles of the Republic 1840-1845
• Los Diablos Tejanos 1846-1848
• Early Statehood 1849-1865
• The Frontier Battalion 1866-1890
• McNelly's Rangers 1874-1890
• Progress and Crisis 1891-1934
• The Modern Texas Rangers 1935-1991
• The Plates

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