HARRIS COUNTY, TX — On this day, April 21, 1836, the Battle of San Jacinto became the final and most important fight of the Texas Revolution. General Sam Houston led a surprise attack against Mexican General Santa Anna’s army near what is now Harris County. The battle lasted 18 minutes, but it led to the end of the war, and Texas gained its independence from Mexico.
In the weeks before the battle, Houston’s army retreated east to avoid Santa Anna’s much larger force. After crossing the Colorado River, the Texan army stopped to train and gather more soldiers. When they learned about the massacre at Goliad, the morale dropped, and some men left to protect their families. Houston still continued to move east until he turned his army toward Harrisburg, where Santa Anna had recently burned the town while chasing the Texas government.
By April 18, Houston’s men reached an area near today’s Houston. At the same time, Santa Anna had moved his troops to the other side of the San Jacinto River. Houston realized the Mexican army had limited options to escape and saw a chance to strike. On April 21, he ordered Vince’s Bridge destroyed, cutting off any path for retreat for either side.
San Jacinto Battlefield
(Credit: Courtesy of Stephen L. Hardin and the University of Texas Press)
That same day, Houston quickly met with his officers to plan the attack. Around 3:30 p.m., while the Mexican soldiers were resting during their afternoon siesta, the Texan army moved forward quietly.
Hidden by trees and higher ground, they charged with the cries “Remember the Alamo!” and “Remember Goliad!” catching the enemy off guard.
The fight was over in less than 20 minutes. The Mexican army suffered heavy losses, with over 600 killed and more than 700 captured. In comparison, only nine Texans were killed and about 30 were wounded. Houston himself injured his ankle, but the victory was complete. The Texans also captured weapons, supplies, and money.
Santa Anna was found the next day hiding in tall grass, dressed as a common soldier. He wasn’t recognized at first, but Mexican troops called him “el presidente.” The Texans then realized who he was. His capture officially ended the conflict and marked the beginning of the Republic of Texas.
The Battle of San Jacinto is remembered as one of the most important military victories in American history. The land Texas later joined included parts of present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and several other states. The outcome of that short battle changed the map of Texas and America’s history.
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