Political Quotes

“Today I rise to speak on the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Boundary Expansion Act of 2010. This legislation will preserve and enhance one of Texas' most historic regions. Additionally, it will provide for a new education center so folks from around the nation can learn more about one of the many historic gems Texas has to offer. I would like to commend Congressman Ciro Rodriguez for his leadership and dedication to the San Antonio Missions. The legislation I have introduced today is a Senate companion to legislation that Congressman Rodriguez introduced earlier this year. During the 1700s, Spain greatly influenced the San Antonio area. As Spanish explorers travelled through modern-day Texas, Catholic missionaries and soldiers accompanied the group and established the missions and forts we now benefit from in the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The missions and forts were originally established to protect Spanish land claims from the French in Louisiana. The missions and forts were also important to Spain in order to spread their influence and recruit new citizens for Spain's expanding empire. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park preserves the 18th century missions on site and offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the historical importance that the area played in vocational and educational training during the 1700s. Furthermore, the park exemplifies the diverse cultural influences we enjoy in Texas.”