In the 1820s, the Texas Rangers were born as a volunteer group to prevent Indian attacks. They later became legendary as lawmen. In 1835, they became official corps, paid defenders of the frontier. When Texas was annexed by America in 1845, frontier protection became a federal issue and the Rangers went back to a volunteer militia. Led by John Coffee (Jack) Hays, they gained national fame for their skill and bravery during the Mexican War. As Indian wars dwindled, the Rangers were reorganized into a statewide law-enforcement organization responsible for controlling and stopping feuds, riots, cattle thefts, and train robbers. Still active today, since 1935, the Texas Rangers have been a branch of the Texas Department of Public Safety.