The Texas Missions were a series of religious outposts established by Spanish settlers in the 18th century. Their primary purpose was to spread Christianity among the indigenous peoples of Texas and to secure Spanish territorial claims. Notable missions include Mission San Antonio de Padua and Mission San José, which played significant roles in the cultural and religious development of the region. These missions often served as centers for agriculture, education, and trade, helping to establish communities in what is now Texas. Today, several of these missions are preserved as historic sites, with San Antonio Missions National Historical Park protecting four of them, showcasing their importance in Texas history.