Texas Ranger Division facts for kids
The Texas Rangers are a famous law enforcement agency in the state of Texas, United States. They are a division of the Texas Department of Public Safety. For almost 200 years, these brave lawmen have helped keep Texas safe. They are known for their unique history and their role in protecting the people of Texas.
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The Start of the Texas Rangers
The Texas Rangers began even before Texas was a state. In 1823, Stephen F. Austin, often called the "Father of Texas," hired ten men to protect early settlers. These settlers were moving into the area and needed protection from Native American raids and other dangers. These first "rangers" rode horses and patrolled the frontier. Their job was to keep the peace and protect the new communities.
Growing with Texas
As more people moved to Texas, the need for law enforcement grew. In 1835, during the Texas Revolution, the Provisional Government of Texas officially created a group of rangers. They were called the "Texas Rangers" and were important in fighting for Texas's independence from Mexico. After Texas became an independent republic, the Rangers continued to serve as its main defense force.
Their Role in History
The Rangers played a big part in many important events in Texas history. They helped protect the border, fought in the Mexican–American War, and later helped control crime across the vast state. They were known for their skills in tracking, riding, and shooting. They often worked in small groups, covering large areas of land.
What Do Texas Rangers Do Today?
Today, the Texas Rangers are still an active and important part of law enforcement in Texas. Their duties have changed over time, but their core mission remains the same: to protect the citizens of Texas.
Modern Ranger Duties
Modern Texas Rangers are involved in many different types of investigations. They often help local police departments with serious crimes like murder, kidnappings, and public corruption. They also work on border security and help during natural disasters. Rangers are highly trained and respected law enforcement officers.
Their Famous Badge
The modern-day badge of a Texas Ranger is very famous. It is often made from a cinco pesos coin, which is a Mexican silver coin. This unique badge has become a symbol of the Texas Rangers and their long history of service.
Images for kids
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An early depiction of a group of Texas Rangers, c. 1845
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Texas Historical Marker for Texas Ranger Camp Roberts in Blanco Canyon
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Texas Rangers gathered at El Paso to stop the illegal Maher–Fitzsimmons fight, 1896. At the front row from the left are Adj. General W Mabry, and Capts. J Hughes, J Brooks, Bill McDonald (coiner of the phrase) and J Rogers.
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Bank robber Sam Bass
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The modern-day badge of a Texas Ranger is compared to the obverse and reverse of a 1948 cinco pesos coin from which it is made.
See also
In Spanish: Rangers de Texas (policía) para niños
