“Remember the Alamo! and Remember Goliad!"

If you're from Texas or have lived there for a long period of time, you might have heard about the Alamo, Sam Houston, San Jacinto, or the infamous siesta that changed Texas's history. If not, you're about to get a 3 minute history lesson! 

The Battle of San Jacinto, which takes its name from the San Jacinto River, took place on April 21, 1836, in present-day Harris County, Texas. On this day every year, Texans come together and celebrate the victory of the Battle of San Jacinto, the final battle of the Texas Revolution where Texas won its independence from Mexico.

In honor of this historical battle that takes place every April, here are a few fun facts about the infamous battle that changed Texas forever!

#1 Texan forces at the Battle of San Jacinto were lead by Sam Houston

On March 2, 1836, Sam Houston was elected Commander-in-Chief of the Texan forces and it was he who would lead them at the Battle of San Jacinto. It’s said that because of the cruelty of Santa Anna, matched with the heroic mantra of the Texan forces at the Battle of the Alamo, many were inspired to join his army. 

#2 Sam Houston’s Unit was the LAST hope for the Texas Revolution

After the defeat at the Battle of the Alamo and the lessons learned from the Battle of Coleto, Sam Houston got word that the Mexican Forces were headed towards the Texan settlements, and were ready to fight. As civilians began to flee, he knew that his army was the last hope for the success of the Texas Revolution and the independence of Texas.

#3 The Mexican force outnumbered the Texans force by 400+ men

On the morning of the attack, Mexican reinforcements flooded in to assist Santa Anna and his army. The Mexican force now outnumbered the Texan unit, whose strength was equivalent to 900 men at this time. Not long after the Mexican reinforcements arrived, Sam Houston ordered his men to destroy Vince’s Bridge, which was to slow down any further reinforcements from joining Santa Anna.

#4 The Battle only lasted for 18 minutes

You snooze, you lose! Literally. On April 21 at 4:30pm, the Texas soldiers swarmed over Santa Anna’s men in a surprise attack while they were taking an afternoon siesta, shouting “Remember the Alamo!“ and "Remember Goliad!". The battle lasted for just 18 minutes after the Mexican soldiers abandoned their campsite and fled for their lives. General Santa Anna was captured and forced to admit defeat not just in the battle, but in the overall war.

#5 San Jacinto Day is an Official Holiday in Texas

Gaining our Independence is a big thing down here in Texas, so it’s no surprise that we continue to remember and celebrate this day on April 21st. Each year, locals raise their Texas flags high as they commemorate and remember the victories from that day and, of course, as they Remember the Alamo! Yeh-haw!

Historical Texas Flags 

Want your own historical Texas flags? Check out some of our San Jacinto Flag options available. While you there, take a look at all of the Historical Texas Flags like, the Come and Take it flag, or the DeZavala flag. Trust us, some of them make for great conversation starters!