Book excerpt: TEXAS: CROSSROADS OF NORTH AMERICA, 2nd Edition, chronicles the development of the political, economic, and social identity of Texas by presenting the unique insights of three authors and incorporating the latest scholarship. The thematically arranged text covers the full scope of Spanish exploration and colonization efforts, as well as the transformation of the Texas economy and society in the 20th century. The first theme, “Texas as place,” presents the state as a crossroads of geographies and cultures, while the second theme, “Texas as opportunity,” features the progression of visitors, immigrants, and Native Texans as they learn to make use of the region's resources. The third theme, “Texas as 'cultural centrifuge,'“ focuses on the convergence, separation, and emergence of various cultural groups in the state. Important Notice: Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version.