the spanish expanded into texas in hopes of gaining an advantage over which rival european colonial power?

The Spanish expanded into Texas in hopes of gaining an advantage over the French, who were their main rival European colonial power in the region. Spain aimed to claim new territories and establish a presence in Texas primarily to counteract French incursions and influence, particularly after the French established forts in the Gulf Coast and on the Mississippi River in the late 1600s and early 1700s. Spain also sought to protect its valuable possessions in New Spain (Mexico) by creating a buffer zone against French expansion. This rivalry prompted Spanish expeditions, establishment of missions, and military fortifications in Texas to secure the territory from French encroachment.