Which historical figure employed a militia group that became known as the Texas Rangers?

The correct answer is Stephen F. Austin. He is recognized as the father of Texas and played a pivotal role in the early colonization of the region. In the early 1830s, during tensions with Mexico over governance and land rights, Austin organized a group of volunteer militia to protect settlers and maintain order in the area. This group became known as the Texas Rangers, who would later evolve into a formal law enforcement agency within the state of Texas.

While Sam Houston is a notable figure in Texas history and served as the commander-in-chief of the Texian Army, he is not credited with the formation of the Texas Rangers in their early days. James Bowie and William B. Travis are also significant figures in the Texas Revolution, particularly at the Alamo, but they did not play the same foundational role in the establishment of the Texas Rangers as Stephen F. Austin did. His leadership and organizational skills were instrumental during a critical time in Texas history.