In the Lone Star State, the phrase “Remember the Alamo!” embodies heroism, courage, and refusal to surrender, even in the face of insurmountable odds.
The Battle of the Alamo was fought on March 6, 1836, between the Republic of Texas and Mexico.
After laying siege for thirteen days, more than 1,000 Mexican soldiers led by Mexican President and General Santa Anna stormed the roughly 4-acre adobe mission, killing nearly all of the 200 Texan soldiers inside.
The Texan soldiers, however, didn’t go down without a fight.
Led by Lieutenant Colonel William Travis, among other Texas heroes like James Bowie and folklore hero, Davy Crockett, the defenders refused to retreat.
Though they had received word of Santa Anna’s approach, the Texas soldiers, which included Texans from all walks of life, including doctors and farmers, made the decision to stay and fight despite being vastly outnumbered.
After only 90-minutes, the Alamo was taken and nearly all defenders, including William Travis, James Bowie, and Davy Crockett, were killed.
With the exception of some women, children, and servants, Santa Anna ordered the execution of all prisoners, even those who reportedly surrendered.
Although the battle culminated in the defeat and massacre of the Texan soldiers inside the fort, “Remember the Alamo!” became the rallying cry of Texans as they continued their fight against Santa Anna and his Mexican forces.
Specifically, “Remember the Alamo!” became the chant that galvanized the Texas militia led by commander Sam Houston at the Battle of San Jacinto, which ultimately led to victory, independence, and the end of the Texas Revolution on April 21.
History remembers the Battle of the Alamo as the turning point in the revolution leading up to Texas independence.
Today, the San Antonio landmark originally built in the 1700s as a home for Spanish missionaries sees more than 2.5 million visitors each year and remains an indelible part of the culture and lifeblood of Texas.
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Sarah McConnell
Sarah McConnell is a reporter for The Texan. Previously, she worked as a Cyber Security Consultant after serving as a Pathways Intern at the Department of Homeland Security – Citizenship and Immigration Services. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Texas A&M as well as her Master of Public Service and Administration degree from the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M. In her free time, Sarah is an avid runner, jazz enthusiast, and lover of all things culinary.
