The correct title for those who contracted settlers to come into Texas is "Empresario." During the early 19th century, particularly in the context of the colonization of Texas under Mexican rule, empresarios were individuals granted the right to settle and promote land within a specified area. They played a crucial role in bringing new settlers, often from the United States, into Texas. These agents would receive land in return for settling and providing for the new inhabitants, which helped grow the population and economic development in the region.
Empresarios, such as Stephen F. Austin, facilitated the immigration process, negotiated land grants, and ensured that newcomers adhered to the terms set by the Mexican government, including the requirement to convert to Catholicism and become Mexican citizens. This system was vital in establishing communities and laying the groundwork for the future state of Texas.
The other titles do not accurately describe this specific role. While a Governor refers to the head of the state government and a Land Grant Holder is someone who owns a parcel of land granted by the government, neither of these titles encapsulates the function of actively promoting and settling land that defines an empresario. Colonization Agent is a broader term that could refer to anyone involved in the colonization process but does not specifically