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Battle of San Jacinto and Texas Independence
Remembering this day in history
The Battle of San Jacinto occurred near the location of what is currently Houston, Texas. The event occurred on April 21st, 1836 and was the final battle of the Texas war of independence. Prior to that, Texas had been part of Mexico.
Mexico had been a colony of Spain, but gained its independence in the 1820s. Because the land that now forms Texas was only sparsely populated at the time, Mexico was happy to welcome foreigners to settle the territory. This included a large contingent of Americans, who were led by Stephen F. Austin.
These Americans made their homes near the Brazos River. After the original immigrants settled, more followed. At some point, the Americans outnumbered the Mexicans who lived in the area.
This led to conflict as the Americans refused to be ruled by the Mexican government. They rebelled. This led to armed conflict, which led to a declaration of independence by the Americans in March of 1836.
Thus began the Texas War of Independence.
Initially, the Texas volunteer soldiers were defeated by troops led by General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. They retreated to the Alamo, an 18th century Franciscan Mission located in what is now San Antonio. This was the site of one of…
