Goliad Massacre of Texian Prisoners

March 27th, 1836

March 27th, 1836

Goliad Massacre of Texian Prisoners
How Long Ago?

188 years, 11 months, 16 days ago

Location

Goliad, Texas

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

Texas Revolution

People
  • Antonio López de Santa Anna
  • James Fannin
Links & References
Tags

Goliad Massacre of Texian Prisoners

The Mexican Army, under General Antonio López de Santa Anna, executed 342 Texian Army prisoners of war at Goliad, Texas, as part of a brutal campaign to quell the Texian rebellion. This decision was a culmination of increasing tensions between the Texian forces seeking independence and the Mexican government. The incident underscored the Mexican determination to suppress the growing Texian resistance and would later mobilize further support for the Texian cause.

342 Texian prisoners executed at Goliad.

Ordered by General Antonio López de Santa Anna.

Inspired the rallying cry 'Remember Goliad!'

Significant turning point in Texas Revolution.

What Happened?

The Goliad Massacre occurred when General Antonio López de Santa Anna, the President of Mexico, ordered the execution of Texian prisoners at the Goliad Mission. The Mexican forces captured the Texian soldiers during the Siege of Bexar and subsequent skirmishes and faced mounting pressure to deal decisively with the rebellious Texans. On March 27, well after the formal surrender of Texian commander James Fannin, the decision was made to execute the prisoners. The mass execution took place in the open, where the Texians were shot en masse in a display of military power intended to serve as an example to deter further uprisings.

The harrowing event became a turning point in the Texas Revolution. Accounts of the massacre spread rapidly among Texians, significantly inflaming anger and outrage against Mexican rule. This act not only highlighted the ruthlessness of Santa Anna’s approach but also galvanized Texian forces, who rallied around the rallying cry of "Remember Goliad!" As a consequence, it played a crucial role in inspiring the Texian army at the Battle of San Jacinto, where they ultimately secured their independence from Mexico just weeks later. The aftermath of the massacre deeply influenced Texas culture, memorializing the sacrifices of those killed and establishing Goliad as a symbol of Texian martyrdom.

Why Does it Matter?

The Goliad Massacre is an essential event in the narrative of the Texas Revolution, illustrating the extreme measures taken by Santa Anna to crush the rebellion. It ignited fierce resolve among Texians, ultimately leading them to victory. The idea of Goliad as a tragic site bolstered Texian nationalism and solidarity against foreign rule, shaping the identity of Texas in its quest for independence.

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