Declaration of Independence: On March 2, 1836, delegates from various Texan settlements met at Washington-on-the-Brazos to discuss their grievances with Mexican rule. The outcome of this meeting was the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, which formally severed ties with Mexico and proclaimed Texas as a sovereign nation.
Battle of the Alamo: One of the most significant battles of the Texas Revolution, the Battle of the Alamo took place from February 23 to March 6, 1836. Mexican forces led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna besieged and ultimately defeated the Texan defenders, who were led by Colonel William Barret Travis and James Bowie. The Texans' courageous resistance and the famous battle cry, "Remember the Alamo," became rallying cries for the Texan cause.
Runaway Scrape: Following the fall of the Alamo, the Texan army, along with many civilians, embarked on a strategic retreat known as the "Runaway Scrape." This was a period of intense anxiety and hardship as they traveled eastward to escape the advancing Mexican army and regroup for further resistance.
Battle of San Jacinto: The decisive Battle of San Jacinto occurred on April 21, 1836, near present-day Houston. The Texan army, led by General Sam Houston, launched a surprise attack against Santa Anna's forces. The battle resulted in a resounding victory for the Texans, capturing Santa Anna and forcing him to sign the Treaties of Velasco.
Treaties of Velasco: Signed on May 14, 1836, the Treaties of Velasco officially recognized the independence of Texas from Mexico. As part of the agreement, Mexico agreed to withdraw its troops and Santa Anna was released from captivity. The treaties established the Rio Grande as the border between Texas and Mexico.
Establishment of the Republic of Texas: Following the achievement of independence, the Republic of Texas was officially established on March 2, 1836, with Sam Houston as its first president. The republic existed as an independent nation until its annexation to the United States in 1845.
In summary, 1836 marked a transformative period in Texas history with the declaration of independence from Mexico, significant battles such as the Alamo and San Jacinto, the establishment of the Republic of Texas, and the shaping of its future political landscape.