Stephen Austin: Empresario of Texas. By Gregg Cantrell. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1999. Pp. xiv, 493. $29.95.)

Abstract

Gregg Cantrell, professor of history at Hardin-Simmoms University, has written an intriguing and intelligent biography of the "'Father of Texas", Stephen Fuller Austin. This is the first major retelling of Austin's life in over seventy years, and it departs significantly from these earlier works. While previous biographies centered on Austin's career and accomplishments, this book concentrates on his personal life, personality, and character.