by HB Auld, Jr.

Today is the 186^th anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto.  On April 21, 1836, “Texican” forces under the leadership of General Sam Houston defeated the Mexican Army in a battle that lasted just 18 minutes.

That same Mexican Army under President of Mexico and General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna had earlier that year massacred almost 200 men and women at the Battle of Alamo.  Less than a month later, more Texicans were executed as Prisoners of War following the Battle of Goliad.  Both of these atrocities gave birth to the Battle Cries: “Remember the Alamo!” and “Remember Goliad!”

…Santa Anna was forced to recognize Texas’ Independence

Following these losing battles, General Sam Houston began a series of strategic retreats eastward across Texas with the Mexican Army in pursuit.  Texicans derided General Houston for his retreats, preferring instead to stand and fight Santa Anna.   As General Houston camped on the banks of the Bay of San Jacinto near the present-day metropolis of Houston, Texas, he planned his counter-punch against Santa Anna.  On April 21, Houston’s Texican Army surprised the Mexican Army as it camped nearby.  Following his defeat in that battle, the Mexican Army’s Santa Anna, disguised as a Mexican Army Private, was captured and brought before General Sam Houston.  In exchange for his freedom, Santa Anna was forced to recognize Texas’ Independence.   

Nine years later in 1845, Texas was finally admitted to the Union as the 28^th state of the growing United States of America.

(Source: The History Channel)

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