What Happened This Year 1836

Historical Events from This Year 1836

Politics & Government

Establishment of the Province of South Australia

February 19th, 1836 189 years ago

King William IV signed Letters Patent to form South Australia, aimed at creating a free settlement without convicts. The establishment was part of colonial expansion strategies to foster economic growth and provide new opportunities for settlers. The legislation laid the groundwork for a self-sufficient province, contributing to the British Empire's development in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Siege of the Alamo Begins in San Antonio

February 23rd, 1836 189 years ago

On February 23, 1836, Mexican forces led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna laid siege to the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, marking a critical moment in the Texas Revolution. The Texan defenders, numbering around 180, included notable figures such as James Bowie and William B. Travis. Their motivation stemmed from a desire for independence from Mexican rule. The siege would last for 13 days, culminating in a fierce battle that would become legendary in Texan history.

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Science & Technology

Samuel Colt patents his iconic revolver

February 25th, 1836 189 years ago

Samuel Colt was granted a U.S. patent for his innovative revolver design, which vastly improved the efficiency and reliability of firearms. This development took place in Hartford, Connecticut, and was pivotal in establishing Colt's reputation as a leading firearms manufacturer. The patent allowed Colt to control the production of his revolvers and marked a significant advancement in firearm technology, particularly due to its ability to fire multiple rounds without needing to be reloaded after each shot. Colt's invention would later play a crucial role in both civilian markets and military applications.

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Politics & Government

Delegates Convene for Texas Independence Discussion

March 1st, 1836 189 years ago

In early March 1836, a convention of 57 delegates gathered in Washington-on-the-Brazos, Texas, to discuss the critical matter of independence from Mexico. Driven by mounting tensions and dissatisfaction with Mexican governance, the assembly aimed to outline a framework for a new nation. The urgent atmosphere highlighted the Texas desire for self-governance and determination to establish a separate identity. The discussions culminated in the drafting of the Texas Declaration of Independence, marking a significant step toward autonomy.

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Politics & Government

Texas Declares Independence from Mexico

March 2nd, 1836 189 years ago

The Republic of Texas formally declared its independence from Mexico. The declaration was adopted at the Convention of 1836 in Washington-on-the-Brazos, where delegates, including figures like Sam Houston and Stephen F. Austin, gathered to establish a government separate from Mexican rule. This statement of independence was driven by ongoing tensions, including political conflicts and cultural differences, ultimately leading to the desire for self-governance and a distinct identity for Texas inhabitants.

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Technology & Innovation

Samuel Colt Patents the .34-Caliber Revolver

March 5th, 1836 189 years ago

Samuel Colt received the patent for his .34-caliber revolver, marking a significant moment in firearm innovation. This revolver featured a rotating cylinder allowing multiple rounds to be fired without reloading. Produced in Paterson, New Jersey, it was one of the first mass-produced revolvers, reflecting Colt's innovative spirit and craftsmanship. His development of this firearm not only advanced the technology of handguns but also set a precedent for future designs, establishing Colt as a leading figure in the arms industry.

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Military & Warfare

Siege and Fall of the Alamo

March 6th, 1836 189 years ago

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.

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Military & Warfare

Goliad Massacre of Texian Prisoners

March 27th, 1836 188 years ago

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.

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Politics & Government

Creation of the Wisconsin Territory

April 20th, 1836 188 years ago

The U.S. Congress passed an act establishing the Wisconsin Territory, defined to encompass much of what is now Wisconsin, parts of Minnesota, Iowa, and Michigan. This act was part of the westward expansion movement in the United States, aiming to organize territories for governance. The new territory would be significant for its natural resources and strategic location. The act aimed to facilitate settlement, governance, and eventual statehood, marking a step in the country's development and its push for westward growth.

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