New Book Uncovers Texas' Overlooked Revolutionary Past Before the Alamo

Rediscovering the Lost War for Texas

A fascinating new work titled The Lost War for Texas by historian James Aalan Bernsen has emerged, bringing to light an often-overlooked conflict in Texas history. This book not only expands the narrative of the early days of the Lone Star State but also intertwines the stories of Anglos and Tejanos fighting together against the Spanish Empire a quarter-century prior to the famed Battle of the Alamo.

In this extensive account, Bernsen elaborates on the Gutiérrez-Magee Expedition, a coalition that attempted to liberate Texas from Spanish rule while contributing to the broader Mexican Revolution. His engaging storytelling is rooted in five years of thorough research, unearthing startling new insights about the characters involved, including the role of followers of the controversial Aaron Burr, dubbed Burrites.

Bernsen suggests that this forgotten skirmish is crucial for understanding the trajectory of Texas as it laid the groundwork for subsequent events in its history. He argues that: "Just as you couldn’t have World War II without World War I, this earlier conflict sets the stage for the Texas Revolution of 1836."

Renowned historian Jesús F. de la Teja describes The Lost War for Texas as a remarkable reinterpretation of a long-neglected yet crucial period. Fellow historian David Narret praises Bernsen for his ability to weave dramatic individual stories, highlighting the book's dual appeal for both history enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Its comprehensive research and captivating narrative have won the book several accolades, including the prestigious Carr P. Collins Award from the Texas Institute of Letters for the best Texas non-fiction book. The award committee commended Bernsen for his rigorous scholarship and the emotional depth in recounting these historical events.

Additionally, The Lost War for Texas has garnered the Kate Broocks Bates Award for Historical Research from the Texas State Historical Association and the Presidio La Bahía Award from the Sons of the Republic of Texas—firmly establishing Bernsen’s contribution to Texas literature.

This book not only captures the essence of Texas's revolutionary past but also provides an in-depth understanding of the state’s cultural and historical identity. As a US Navy veteran who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, Bernsen brings a unique perspective to this narrative, further enriched by his experience as a journalist and public relations consultant. His writings have previously appeared in esteemed publications such as the Southwestern Historical Quarterly and the Handbook of Texas.

On November 7-8, 2025, Bernsen will take the stage at the Texas Book Festival in Austin, where he will discuss his findings and the importance of remembering this pivotal chapter in Texas history. His work promises not only to educate but also to inspire a renewed appreciation for the rich tapestry that weaves together this remarkable state’s storied past.

The Lost War for Texas is published by Texas A&M University Press and is poised to change the way Texans view their revolutionary heritage.

For those interested in exploring Texas's foundational history and understanding the complexities of its revolutionary roots, this book is an essential read that bridges gaps in collective memory and highlights the collaborative spirit that characterized Texas’s earliest days.