What was the Texas Revolution?

The Texas Revolution was a conflict fought between the Republic of Texas and Mexico from 1835 to 1836. It resulted in the independence of Texas from Mexico and the establishment of the Republic of Texas.

What were the causes of the Texas Revolution?

The causes of the Texas Revolution were multifaceted. Some key factors include discontent among American settlers in Texas due to the centralist policies of the Mexican government, the abolition of slavery in Mexico (which clashed with the pro-slavery sentiments of many Texas settlers), and the general desire for greater political autonomy.

Who were the major figures of the Texas Revolution?

Prominent figures in the Texas Revolution include Sam Houston, Stephen F. Austin, James Bowie, William B. Travis, Davy Crockett, and Antonio López de Santa Anna.

What were the major battles of the Texas Revolution?

The Texas Revolution included several significant battles, including the Battle of the Alamo (1836), the Battle of San Jacinto (1836), the Battle of Goliad (1836), and the Siege of Béxar (1835).

What was the significance of the Battle of the Alamo?

The Battle of the Alamo, which took place in February 1836, was a pivotal event in the Texas Revolution. Although the Texian defenders, including famous figures like Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, were ultimately defeated by the Mexican army led by Santa Anna, the battle inspired and rallied Texian forces and became a symbol of resistance.

How did the Texas Revolution end?

The Texas Revolution ended with the decisive Texian victory at the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836. The Texian army, led by Sam Houston, defeated Santa Anna's forces, captured Santa Anna himself, and forced him to sign the Treaties of Velasco, recognizing the independence of Texas.

What was the outcome of the Texas Revolution?

The outcome of the Texas Revolution was the establishment of the independent Republic of Texas. It remained an independent nation for nearly a decade until it joined the United States as the 28th state in 1845.

How did the Texas Revolution impact the United States?

The Texas Revolution had a significant impact on the United States. It led to the annexation of Texas, which sparked tensions between the United States and Mexico and eventually resulted in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).

Were there any notable documents associated with the Texas Revolution?

Yes, the Texas Declaration of Independence, signed on March 2, 1836, was a crucial document in the Texas Revolution. It outlined the reasons for separating from Mexico and establishing an independent Texas.

What is the importance of the Texas Revolution in Texan and American history?

The Texas Revolution holds great importance in Texan and American history. It demonstrated the spirit of independence and self-determination, leading to the formation of the Republic of Texas and eventually the expansion of the United States westward. It also influenced the debate over slavery and contributed to the tensions between the North and South leading up to the American Civil War.

Historical Marker

William Carvin Winters

Historical marker location:

Big Foot, Texas

( Located in Longview Cemetery, from Bigfoot, take Highway 462 west about 1.5 miles, then turn north onto county road and follow about one mile to cemetery.)

Marker installed: 1936

Marker size: 1936 Centennial Marker (gray granite)

Came to Texas in 1834, wounded at San Jacinto, born in Tennessee in 1809, died in 1863

A brief timeline of the Texas Revolution

1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Texas becomes a part of the Mexican territory.
1824: The Mexican government establishes a constitution, known as the Mexican Federal Constitution of 1824, which grants certain rights to the Mexican states, including Texas.
1826: The Fredonian Rebellion occurs when Haden Edwards, an empresario (land agent), declares the independence of the Republic of Fredonia in East Texas. The rebellion is quickly suppressed by Mexican authorities.
1830: The Mexican government passes the Law of April 6, 1830, which imposes several restrictions on American immigration to Texas and increases Mexican control over the region. This leads to growing tensions between Mexican authorities and the Anglo-American settlers.
1832: The Battle of Velasco takes place between Texian settlers and Mexican forces near the town of Velasco. The Texians win the battle, which marks one of the early armed conflicts in the region.
1835: The Texas Revolution officially begins with the Battle of Gonzales. Texian rebels refuse to surrender a cannon, and Mexican troops are sent to retrieve it. However, the Texians successfully defend the cannon, which has a flag with the words "Come and Take It" painted on it.
October 1835: Texian forces capture the Mexican garrison at Goliad, marking a significant victory for the revolutionaries.
November 1835: The Consultation, a provisional government, is established by the Texian rebels. They declare loyalty to Mexico while seeking a restoration of the Mexican Constitution of 1824 and the removal of Mexican President Antonio López de Santa Anna.
December 1835: Texian rebels, under the command of Ben Milam, capture San Antonio de Béxar after a 13-day siege. Mexican forces under General Martín Perfecto de Cos surrender, giving the Texians control of the city.
March 1836: The Texian garrison at the Alamo, in San Antonio, is besieged by a large Mexican force under General Santa Anna. The battle lasts for 13 days, and despite fierce resistance, the defenders are overwhelmed, and all are killed.
March 2, 1836: The Texas Declaration of Independence is adopted at the Convention of 1836, held at Washington-on-the-Brazos. Texas declares itself as an independent republic.
March 27, 1836: The Goliad Massacre takes place when General Santa Anna orders the execution of around 350 Texian prisoners of war at Goliad.
April 21, 1836: The Battle of San Jacinto occurs near the present-day city of Houston. Led by General Sam Houston, the Texian army defeats the Mexican forces, capturing Santa Anna himself. The battle lasts only 18 minutes and is a decisive victory for the Texians.
May 14, 1836: The Treaties of Velasco are signed, officially ending the Texas Revolution. Santa Anna, as a prisoner, signs the treaties recognizing Texas as an independent republic and agreeing to withdraw Mexican troops from the region.
October 22, 1836: Sam Houston is inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas.

This timeline provides a general overview of the major events during the Texas Revolution, but it is important to note that there were numerous smaller engagements and political developments throughout the conflict.

About Texas State Historical Markers

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Texas Revolution Republic of Texas military topics

The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.

About Frio County

Frio County, located in southwest Texas, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecans and Lipan Apaches, who relied on the area's abundant natural resources for survival.

The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 17th century brought significant changes to the region. Spanish missionaries established settlements and began introducing Christianity to the Native American tribes. One such settlement was the San Agustín de Laredo Presidio, which was founded in 1755 and served as a military outpost to protect Spanish interests in the area.

During the 19th century, Frio County experienced its major period of settlement. In 1858, the first Anglo-American families began to arrive, attracted by the fertile land and the potential for agriculture. The county was officially established in 1858 and was named after the Frio River, which runs through its western portion.

The discovery of oil in the early 20th century brought further development and prosperity to Frio County. Oil fields were established in the area, attracting workers and boosting the local economy. Today, Frio County is known for its oil and gas production, as well as its agricultural activities such as ranching and farming. The county continues to thrive, blending its rich history with modern industry and a strong sense of community.

Frio County Timeline

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Frio County, Texas.

1858 - Frio County is established from portions of Atascosa, Bexar, Uvalde, and Webb counties.
1868 - The first post office is established in Frio City.
1878 - The county seat is moved from Frio City to Pearsall.
1880 - The Southern Pacific Railroad is extended into Frio County, boosting economic growth.
1900 - The population of Frio County reaches over 7,000 residents.
1911 - A major flood causes significant damage to the county.
1927 - Frio County suffers from another devastating flood.
1934 - The Civilian Conservation Corps establishes Camp F-2 Company 1827 at Frio County Airport.
1940s - The discovery of oil and gas leads to increased economic activity in the county.
1990 - The population of Frio County exceeds 12,000 residents.
2010 - Frio County celebrates its 150th anniversary.