Siege and Fall of the Alamo
March 6th, 1836
March 6th, 1836
How Long Ago?
189 years, 9 days ago
Location
San Antonio, Texas, United States
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Texas Revolution
People
- Antonio López de Santa Anna
- Davy Crockett
- Jim Bowie
- James Travis
Links & References
Tags
Siege and Fall of the Alamo
A thirteen-day siege culminated in the capture of the Alamo by Mexican forces. Led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna, about 3,000 Mexican troops besieged the fort held by 187 Texian volunteers, including prominent figures Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie. Despite fierce resistance, the defenders were ultimately overrun on March 6, 1836.
The siege lasted 13 days with heavy bombardment.
The Alamo was defended by 187 Texian volunteers.
Prominent figures included Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie.
The battle's outcome influenced Texas independence.
What Happened?
The Battle of the Alamo took place as part of the Texas Revolution, a pivotal conflict that led to Texas gaining its independence from Mexico. The Alamo, a former mission in San Antonio, had transformed into a key position for Texian forces. By early 1836, tensions had escalated between the Texian settlers and the Mexican government over issues such as slavery and the arrangement of local governance. Colonel James Travis and his troops fortified the Alamo, believing its capture was essential to enforcing Texian independence. Over the course of thirteen days, General Santa Anna's army laid siege to the fort, bombarding it extensively. Each day, the conditions worsened for the defenders as supplies dwindled and casualties mounted. On March 6, under cover of darkness, Santa Anna ordered a final assault, overwhelming the weary defenders. In the ensuing battle, nearly all of the approximately 187 Texian volunteers, including noteworthy figures like Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, lost their lives in the fierce fighting for control of the Alamo.
Why Does it Matter?
The fall of the Alamo became a rallying cry for Texian forces fighting for independence from Mexico. The phrase 'Remember the Alamo!' was used to inspire troops and citizens alike, galvanizing support for the Texian cause. This battle elevated the conflict to national attention and underscored the struggle for self-determination, influencing future movements for autonomy in other parts of the United States.
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