The Crash of ‘29 shattered the once-prosperous North American Aviation company. Rapid expansion had drained off capital, and within a few weeks the seemingly solid company collapsed amid bitter recriminations. Factories were sold off at bargain prices, prompting the formation of small aircraft manufacturers scattered across Hollywood, the Empire State and the Republic of Texas. One site in Dallas was purchased by Dallas industrialist Bruce Williams and Benjamin Colt, descendant of Samuel Colt (of pistol fame). Both were keen amateur aviators and intended to use the plant to further their hobby. The dissolution of the United States and the Texan government’s call for armaments, however, prompted the two men to design a new type of heavy fighter.

Their first effort proved unsuccessful, but they persevered, and in June of 1932 the first Peacemaker began trials. Despite a few early problems with the engine mounting, the project was judged a success, and mass production began in October of the same year. A second design, the Rifleman, followed in 1936. That same year the company acquired the former North American plant in Kansas City to produce a new line of civilian aircraft. However, strained relations with the People’s Collective government have so far prevented the start of full production at the facility.