As tensions escalated between the Mexican government and the new Anglo arrivals in Texas, Stephen F. Austin (1793–1836), an influential empresario in the region, traveled to Mexico with the hope of persuading General Antonio López de Santa Anna to lift new restrictions on immigration from the United States. Austin, a sympathizer with the Mexican government, reluctantly traveled to Mexico on the behalf of Texan delegates to attempt to end the immigration restrictions and allow Texas statehood in the nation of Mexico. Although he was successful in repealing the immigration ban, Austin was arrested by Mexican officials while heading back to Texas and charged with insurrection. In his correspondence with George Fisher, the empresario in the Nacogdoches area of Texas, Austin spoke of his frustrations with the “affairs of Texas” and defends his actions there.