Final answer:
Texans developed a strong sense of independence, a resistance to cultural assimilation, and a contentious stance towards Mexico, influenced by their experiences as a part of Mexico, as the Republic of Texas, and during the Civil War and Reconstruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The attitudes that Texans developed from their experiences as a Mexican colony, the Republic of Texas, and during the Civil War/Reconstruction period include a strong sense of independence, a resistance to cultural assimilation, and a contentious stance towards Mexico. A brief overview of Texas's history highlights these attitudes. Initially welcomed into Mexico, American settlers in Texas maintained a distinct identity, largely ignoring the Mexican government's attempts at integration through various laws, such as speaking Spanish, and religious inclusion, such as practicing Catholicism.
Slavery also became a major issue, with many Texans refusing to follow Mexican laws that were against the practice. The result was increased conflict leading to the Texas Revolution and the establishment of the independent Republic of Texas. Following the annexation by the United States, the attitudes that had been shaped earlier continued to manifest during the Civil War, with Texas joining the Confederacy and later grappling with the challenges of Reconstruction.