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Texas Independence

Overview

• Texas Independence: A significant historical event involving Texas's separation from Mexico, marked by notable battles and political movements.

Early Steps Towards Independence

• Constitution of 1835: Assembled by 55 delegates in San Felipe de Austin; aimed for a federalist government and sought help from the U.S.

• Key Figures:

  • Henry Smith: Elected governor

  • James Robinson: Lieutenant governor

  • Sam Houston: Appointed commander of the army

• Mexican Military Threat: In early 1836, President Santa Anna mobilized 6,000 troops toward Texas.

Revolt Against Mexico

• Early Struggles:

  • Texas troops primarily comprised volunteers, difficult to manage.

  • Sam Houston lacked authority over these volunteers.

• General Council: Called for elections in March 1836; political infighting led to instability.

• Washington-on-the-Brazos: Delegates met (March 1, 1836) pushing for independence.

Declaration of Independence

• March 2, 1836: Declaration endorsed by delegates, citing Santa Anna's tyranny and violations of rights.

  • Accusations against the Mexican government for:

    • Overthrowing the Constitution of 1824

    • Restricting rights (trial, religion, arms, education)

    • Inciting violence through military actions and mercenaries.

Causes of Texas Revolution

• Conflicts and Theories:

  • Views included a slave conspiracy, tyranny vs. democracy, U.S. imperialism, and economic isolation leading to a preference for U.S. involvement.

  • Austin's Quote: Described Texas as "a ripe peach" ready for picking (i.e., ripe for annexation).

The Battle of the Alamo

• Santa Anna's Campaign: Arrived on February 23, 1836; the Alamo fortified by leaders Travis and Bowie.

• Battle Dynamics:

  • March 6: Attack commenced; Santa Anna ordered no prisoners.

  • Texan forces numbered 240-260 with 21 artillery pieces.

  • Casualties: Majority of Texans were killed; Santa Anna's losses included 200 dead and 200 wounded. Survivor: Susannah Dickinson.

Goliad Incident

• James Fannin's Defense: Prepared to defend at Goliad but was eventually outmaneuvered by General Urrea.

• Defeat and Surrender: Fannin forced to abandon garrison; executed after surrender with over 300 men.

Sam Houston's Role

• Leadership:

  • By March, appointed commander with limited initial troop strength (374).

  • Aimed to retreat strategically to preserve forces after Alamo's fall.

Panic and the Runaway Scrape

• Public Response: Panic spread among troops and communities over Mexican advances; led to mass evacuation known as the Runaway Scrape.

• Santa Anna's Strategy: Overconfidence led him to divide forces to seek the Texan government, resulting in a pivotal confrontation.

Battle of San Jacinto

• April 21, 1836: Surprise attack on Santa Anna's troops, leading to a quick victory for Houston's forces.

• Casualties: 650 Mexican dead; Texans suffered minimal losses (8-9 dead).

• Aftermath: Santa Anna captured and pressured into signing the Treaty of Velasco, acknowledging Texan independence.

Government Formation and Challenges

• Interim Government: Established with David Burnett as President; responsibilities included managing debts, treaties, and military affairs.

• Recognition Challenges: Mexico's refusal to recognize Texas's independence led to ongoing tensions and diplomatic efforts to secure legitimacy from foreign powers.

Social and Economic Issues

• Debt: Houston's administration faced a financial crisis, accumulating debts leading to reduced military forces and public outcry.

• Immigration and Development:

  • Significant population growth post-independence, mainly from Anglo migration.

  • Slavery protections codified in the 1836 Constitution, reflecting growing reliance on plantation economies.

Indian Relations and Conflicts

• No Formal Policy: Initial lack of a coherent Indian policy followed by contrasting approaches from Houston (conciliation) and Lamar (displacement).

• Major Conflicts: Battles such as Neches against Cherokee and skirmishes with Comanche marked violent relations.

The Road to Annexation

• Shifting Political Landscape: Debates over British and French recognition contrasted with internal division regarding annexation by the U.S.

• Successful Annexation: Ultimately facilitated by President Tyler and affirmatively enacted in December 1845 with implications for Texas's territorial integrity and relationships with Mexico.

Conclusion: Legacy of Texas Independence

• Impact: Set the stage for future conflicts including the Mexican-American War and a significant shift in U.S. territorial and political dynamics.