Texans take great pride in having been an independent nation prior to annexation to the United States, but few understand the overwhelming challenges even to the basic demand on all government; i.e., providing protection and security. When the government proved incapable of fulfilling its most basic responsibilities, citizen-soldiers did the job themselves, saving the country until the U. S. came to the rescue. The Rangers prevailed because of captains and volunteers alike who, though having no formal training, grasped key strategic and tactical principles, allowing them to prevail against equally courageous enemies, earning their hold on the land in a primal struggle for survival. The Rangers enrolled hundreds of volunteers; in fact, in the hotly contested areas a clear majority of settlers turned out in response to calls for Ranger companies issued by leaders who would become legendary. They watered the land with their own blood and that of their enemies, a story that has never before been told comprehensively and accurately.