What is the term used for land received from the Spanish/Mexican Government?

The term that refers to land received from the Spanish or Mexican Government is "Land Grant." Land grants were a common practice during the time when Texas was under Spanish and Mexican rule, allowing individuals or families to receive parcels of land in exchange for loyalty, settlement, or other obligations.

Titles, while related, refer to the legal rights an individual has over a piece of property, and do not specifically indicate the origin of the land. A headright is a specific type of land grant that was used in colonial America, giving individuals parcels of land for bringing settlers into an area. A deed is a legal document that conveys ownership of real property, but like titles, does not specifically denote the source of the land in the context of Spanish or Mexican origin.

Land grants are significant in the history of Texas land ownership, as they established the foundation for much of the property distribution we see today. Understanding this term helps clarify the historical nuances of land acquisition in Texas before it became a part of the United States.