Texas Independence Movement

Definition

The Texas Independence Movement was a series of events and actions that led to Texas gaining independence from Mexico in 1836. It was fueled by a combination of cultural, political, and economic tensions between Anglo-American settlers and the Mexican government, leading to the declaration of independence and the establishment of the Republic of Texas. This movement is often viewed in the context of Manifest Destiny, as it represented the growing desire among Americans to expand westward and assert their influence over new territories.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Texas Independence Movement began in the early 1830s as tensions grew between Texian settlers and the Mexican government over issues like slavery and self-governance.
2. The movement gained momentum after the conflict escalated into armed confrontations, notably the Siege of Bexar in late 1835, where Texian forces captured San Antonio.
3. The pivotal Battle of the Alamo in March 1836 became a rallying cry for Texians, symbolizing their struggle for independence despite a significant loss.
4. On April 21, 1836, Texian forces led by Sam Houston achieved a decisive victory over Santa Anna's army at the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas' independence.
5. Texas remained an independent republic until it was annexed by the United States in 1845, an event that contributed to tensions leading up to the Mexican-American War.

Review Questions

• How did cultural and political tensions contribute to the Texas Independence Movement?
  • Cultural and political tensions played a significant role in sparking the Texas Independence Movement. Anglo-American settlers had different values and interests than the Mexican government, particularly regarding slavery and land rights. The increasing imposition of Mexican laws that conflicted with these settlers' expectations led to growing resentment and demands for greater autonomy, ultimately culminating in calls for independence.
• Discuss the significance of the Battle of the Alamo in shaping public perception during the Texas Independence Movement.
  • The Battle of the Alamo became a pivotal symbol during the Texas Independence Movement, representing heroism and sacrifice against overwhelming odds. Although Texian forces were defeated, their bravery galvanized support for independence among settlers and sympathizers. The phrase 'Remember the Alamo' emerged as a rallying cry that motivated Texians to unite against Mexican forces, ultimately leading to a successful push for independence.
• Evaluate how the Texas Independence Movement reflected broader themes of Manifest Destiny in American history.
  • The Texas Independence Movement exemplified key themes of Manifest Destiny by showcasing Americans' belief in their right to expand westward across North America. The desire for territorial expansion often clashed with existing sovereign nations like Mexico, leading to conflicts such as this one. The eventual annexation of Texas into the United States further illustrates this ideology, as it not only fulfilled ambitions for growth but also intensified sectional divisions over issues like slavery that would shape future national conflicts.

Related terms

Republic of Texas:

The independent nation established after Texas declared its independence from Mexico in 1836, which lasted until it joined the United States in 1845.

Sam Houston:

A key leader in the Texas Independence Movement who became the first president of the Republic of Texas and played a significant role in its military and political affairs.

Santa Anna: The Mexican general and president whose forces were defeated at the Battle of San Jacinto, leading to Texas independence.