The Battle of San Jacinto occurred in the midst of the Texas Revolution, a conflict that began in 1835 as Texans sought independence from Mexican rule. On the morning of April 21, 1836, General Sam Houston led a force of approximately 900 Texian soldiers against General Antonio López de Santa Anna's Mexican troops, who numbered around 1,500. The battle took place at a site near the San Jacinto River, where Santa Anna had camped after advancing deeper into Texan territory. Houston's forces, having retreated strategically to gain time, executed a surprise attack during the afternoon nap of the Mexican soldiers.

The engagement was remarkably brief, lasting only about 18 minutes. Texian forces overwhelmed the Mexican encampment, routing the troops and capturing several hundred soldiers, including Santa Anna himself. The Texians achieved a critical victory that greatly boosted their morale and established their legitimacy as an independent entity. This battle effectively ended the Texas Revolution, leading to the signing of the Treaties of Velasco, which recognized the independence of Texas from Mexico.

The aftermath saw Texas gain significant territorial and political autonomy, and the event is commemorated in Texan culture and history as a defining moment that led to the establishment of the Republic of Texas. The swift victory at San Jacinto highlighted the tactical prowess of Houston and the resolve of the Texian fighters, setting the stage for future conflicts and political developments between Texas and Mexico.