Important Questions
Securing Victory and Independence
What mistake did Santa Anna make during the Texas Revolution?
He underestimated the resolve and capabilities of Texan forces and became overconfident.
Why did Houston have his troops retreat in March 1836?
To regroup, strengthen his forces, and avoid direct confrontation until they were ready.
The Battle of San Jacinto
What was the key outcome of the Battle of San Jacinto?
Santa Anna was captured, and it marked a significant defeat for Mexico, leading to Texas independence.
How long did the Battle of San Jacinto last?
18 minutes, showcasing the surprise and effectiveness of the Texan attack.
The Treaty of Velasco
What was written in the public treaty?
It recognized Texas independence and established boundaries for the new nation.
Why did Mexico refuse to accept the Treaties of Velasco?
They argued that Santa Anna was coerced into signing them while a prisoner and that he had no authority to negotiate.
The United States and Texas
How did President Jackson feel about Texas?
Cautious and reluctant to recognize Texas due to the implications for slavery and potential conflict with Mexico.
What is manifest destiny?
The belief that U.S. expansion across the continent was justified and inevitable, promoting the idea of spreading democracy.
The Republic of Texas
What problems did Houston face as president?
Ongoing threats from Mexico, Native American raids, unrest in the army, and deep national debt.
Why did Houston favor annexation?
He believed it would provide security, stability, and economic support for Texas.
Overall Important Questions
Why did people still fear Santa Anna?
He was known for his ruthless tactics and brutal treatment of enemies.
Describe Sam Houston’s upbringing.
Sam Houston grew up in Virginia, faced hardship early on, lived with the Cherokee for a time, and had a strong sense of justice.
What mistake did Santa Anna make during the Texas Revolution?
He underestimated the resolve and capabilities of Texan forces and became overconfident.
Why did Houston have his troops retreat in March 1836?
To regroup, strengthen his forces, and avoid direct confrontation until they were ready.
How did Santa Anna treat his enemies?
He was brutal, killing defenders at the Alamo and ordering executions at Goliad to instill fear.
What did Houston's army seek at San Felipe?
A safe spot for rest and to regroup, receiving supplies and reinforcements, including volunteers.
What was another major mistake Santa Anna made?
He dispersed his troops, thinking they were no longer in danger.
What did Texans chant before attacking at San Jacinto?
“Remember the Alamo, Remember Goliad!”
How long did the Battle of San Jacinto last?
18 minutes, showcasing the surprise and effectiveness of the Texan attack.
What was the key outcome of the Battle of San Jacinto?
Santa Anna was captured, and it marked a significant defeat for Mexico, leading to Texas independence.
What was written in the public treaty?
It recognized Texas independence and established boundaries for the new nation.
Why did Mexico refuse to accept the Treaties of Velasco?
They argued that Santa Anna was coerced into signing them while a prisoner and that he had no authority to negotiate.
How did President Jackson feel about Texas?
Cautious and reluctant to recognize Texas due to the implications for slavery and potential conflict with Mexico.
What is manifest destiny?
The belief that U.S. expansion across the continent was justified and inevitable, promoting the idea of spreading democracy.
What problems did Houston face as president?
Ongoing threats from Mexico, Native American raids, unrest in the army, and deep national debt.
Why did Houston favor annexation?
He believed it would provide security, stability, and economic support for Texas.