Battle of San Jacinto

Definition

The Battle of San Jacinto was a pivotal conflict fought on April 21, 1836, during the Texas Revolution where Texian forces led by Sam Houston defeated the Mexican army commanded by General Santa Anna. This decisive battle effectively secured Texas independence from Mexico and set the stage for the future political landscape of Texas and its eventual annexation into the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The battle lasted just 18 minutes but resulted in a significant victory for the Texian forces, capturing over 700 Mexican soldiers including General Santa Anna.
2. The Texians shouted 'Remember the Alamo!' during the battle, which served as a rallying cry reflecting their desire for revenge for the earlier defeat at the Alamo.
3. Following their defeat, Santa Anna signed the Treaties of Velasco, which recognized Texas independence and ended hostilities between Mexico and Texas.
4. The battle was fought near present-day Houston, Texas, on the banks of Buffalo Bayou, making it one of the largest military engagements in Texas history.
5. The victory at San Jacinto ultimately led to the establishment of the Republic of Texas, influencing future territorial expansions and conflicts with Mexico.

Review Questions

• Discuss how the Battle of San Jacinto impacted Texian morale during the Texas Revolution.
  • The Battle of San Jacinto significantly boosted Texian morale by demonstrating that a well-coordinated Texian force could defeat the much larger Mexican army. This victory came after a series of hardships and defeats for Texians, particularly following the fall of the Alamo. The success at San Jacinto served to unify Texian forces and inspired many individuals to join the cause for independence, ultimately leading to a stronger resolve among Texans to fight for their freedom.
• Evaluate how the outcome of the Battle of San Jacinto influenced U.S.-Mexico relations in subsequent years.
  • The outcome of the Battle of San Jacinto not only secured Texas independence but also strained U.S.-Mexico relations significantly. The recognition of Texas as an independent republic led to tensions between Mexico and the United States, particularly as American settlers began to push for Texas annexation. This contentious issue contributed to further conflicts, including the Mexican-American War in 1846, which fundamentally altered the political landscape in North America.
• Analyze the long-term effects of the Battle of San Jacinto on Texas governance and identity in American history.
  • The Battle of San Jacinto had profound long-term effects on both Texas governance and its identity within American history. The victory facilitated the creation of an independent Republic of Texas, which established its own government and constitution reflecting both democratic ideals and distinct regional values. Over time, this event contributed to a unique sense of identity among Texans that persists today. Additionally, as Texas became a state in 1845, it carried with it remnants of its revolutionary spirit, influencing state politics and culture as well as its relationship with federal governance.

Related terms

Texas Revolution: A rebellion of colonists from the United States and Tejanos against Mexican rule in Texas from 1835 to 1836, culminating in the establishment of the Republic of Texas.

Sam Houston: A military leader and politician who played a key role in the Texas Revolution, serving as commander-in-chief of the Texian army and later as the first president of the Republic of Texas.

Republic of Texas: The independent nation that existed from 1836 to 1845 after gaining independence from Mexico, characterized by its own government and constitution before joining the United States.