Editing Tejanos (section)

== Psychology Developments ==
Under Mexican rule, the Tejanos held political power, with energetic participation in municipal government through such organizations as the [[ayuntamiento]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Association |first=Texas State Historical |title=The Evolution of Tejano Politics in Texas: A Historical Overview |url=https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/tejano-politics?utm_source=chatgpt.com |access-date=2025-04-28 |website=Texas State Historical Association |language=en}}</ref> Their political presence, however, faded following annexation. In [[San Antonio]], for instance, Mexican aldermen on the city council [[wiktionary:dwindle|dwindled]] severely subsequent to Texas statehood. Between 1837 and 1904, of the 541 males who served as [[Alderman|aldermen]], only 92 (17 percent) were Mexican, and all except seven of those Mexican city aldermen served before 1867. This political [[marginalization]] led to Tejanos being disempowered and disenfranchised and also impacted their sense of belonging and agency

The [[Psychological trauma|psychological]] effects of the annexation crossed generations. Intergenerational trauma, a consequence of loss of land, language, and cultural practices, has been passed down through generations. The intergenerational trauma is felt in diverse ways, including [[anxiety]], [[Depression (mood)|depression]], and a fractured identity. Tejanos, however, have exhibited remarkable resilience and have retained and reclaimed their cultural heritage in terms of music, celebrations, and community institutions. Such cultural expressions are primary avenues for healing and self-expression in the presence of ongoing [[Adversity quotient|adversity]].

The [[annexation of Texas]] was a watershed in Tejano history, initiating a complex process of cultural transformation and [[Psychology|psychological]] readjustment. Although the impact of this change was deeply felt, the ability of the Tejano people to survive these tribulations and preserve their cultural identity is a testament to their strength and resilience. An understanding of this history is essential to an appreciation of the richness of Tejano contributions to the cultural heritage of Texas and the United States.