Untitled Flashcard Set
1. Overview of San Antonio, Texas
History: Founded in 1718, San Antonio is one of the oldest Spanish-settled cities in Texas.
Culture: A vibrant mix of Mexican and Texan (Tejano) influences, known for its historic missions, the River Walk, and diverse culinary scene.
Mission System: Established by Spanish missionaries to convert Indigenous populations to Christianity and consolidate Spanish territory.
2. The Alamo (Mission San Antonio de Valero)
Origin: Founded in 1718 as the first of the San Antonio missions.
Architecture: Features a stone chapel and a large courtyard (convento) area, originally designed as a religious and agricultural community.
3. The Battle of the Alamo (1836)
Context: Occurred during the Texas Revolution against Mexican rule under General Antonio López de Santa Anna.
The Siege: Lasted for 13 days, beginning on February 23, 1836, and ending with a final assault on March 6, 1836.
Key Figures:
William B. Travis: The lieutenant colonel in command of the Texian forces at the Alamo.
James (Jim) Bowie: Famous frontiersman known for his large knife; co-commanded the garrison until he became ill.
David (Davy) Crockett: Former U.S. Congressman and legendary frontiersman who arrived from Tennessee with a group of volunteers.
Santa Anna: The President and General of Mexico who led the Mexican Army to retake the fort.
Outcome: The Mexican Army breached the walls and defeated the Texian defenders. Nearly all adult male defenders were killed, though some civilians (women, children, and enslaved people) were spared.
4. Significance and Legacy
"Remember the Alamo!": This became the rallying cry for the Texian Army at the Battle of San Jacinto, where they eventually defeated Santa Anna and won independence for the Republic of Texas.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 2015, the Alamo, along with four other San Antonio missions, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Symbolism: Today, the Alamo stands as a symbol of sacrifice and the struggle for independence.