Poles in the 19th Century Southwest

Poles played significant roles in the history of the American Southwest. As political emigres escaping the oppression of the occupying powers in their native land, they were at center stage of the unfolding frama in teh West -- the War with Mexico that thrust America into the desert Southwest, demarcation of the long boundary between the United States and Mexico, saga of the old Santa Fe Trail linking the States with the conquered territories, the Battle of Glorieta Pass that became teh decisive action of the Civil War in the West, the economic and social development of New Mexico Territory, and the defense of the Texas western frontier. These historical events found the sons of Poland performing conspicuos roles for their adopted country.