Why was the Santa Cruz de San Saba built?

The Santa Cruz de San Saba was built in 1757 by Spanish missionaries to serve as a mission and a fortification in response to conflicts with Native American tribes, particularly the Comanche. Its primary purpose was to evangelize and convert local indigenous populations to Christianity while also establishing a Spanish presence in the region. The mission aimed to promote agriculture and trade, but it faced challenges, including resistance from Native Americans, which ultimately led to its abandonment in the early 19th century.