Austin, Texas
The city of Austin has a rich culture informed by a unique history unlike anywhere else in the world.
Written by Fred Frederson
Last updated: June 22, 2018
The earliest known inhabitants of the area lived around 9200 BC, based on evidence found throughout the area and especially at the much-studied Gault Archeological Site, north of the city.
Excavations at the Gault site
When Europeans arrived, the area was inhabited by the Tonkawa tribe. Comanches and Lipan Apaches also traveled in the region. Though they came into contact with Spanish explorers and missions, few settlements were established for several centuries.
Austin is situated at the foot of the Balcones Escarpment, a long stable and inactive fault line, on the Colorado River. This fault divides the Hill Country to the West of Austin from the prairie land to the East.
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