San Jacinto Day Honors Texas Independence

Ask a group of proud Texans to name the most decisive date in our state’s history and April 21, 1836 would get quite a few votes for sure.

On this date, 175 years ago on a battlefield near the modern-day city of La Porte in Harris County, the Lone Star State won its independence from Mexico after General Sam Houston led a successful surprise attack against Santa Anna’s army at the Battle of San Jacinto. Incredible as it sounds, most historians agree the battle was over in about 18 minutes. Even more astonishing was the death toll, which counted some 650 Mexican fatalities versus only nine fallen Texans.

The determined Texans were undoubtedly driven by the call of revenge following Santa Anna’s earlier massacres at the Alamo and Goliad. It was at the Battle of San Jacinto where cries of “Remember the Alamo!” and “Remember Goliad!” entered into infamy. In addition to those killed at San Jacinto, Houston’s men captured another 700-plus Mexican soldiers. The following day, Santa Anna himself was captured and relinquished control of Texas.

Over the past 175 years, much has changed, but some things remain the same – and that includes Texas pride and independence. As you enjoy the official state holiday today, please take a moment to remember its origin. Remember the Battle of San Jacinto and enjoy your Texas independence, which was fought for and won on San Jacinto Day.

A Salute to the Lone Star State on Texas Independence Day

Today is Texas Independence Day, marking the 175th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Four days later, the Alamo fell and nearly seven weeks after that, on April 21, the Texian army led by Gen. Sam Houston defeated Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto and Texas won its independence

Texas is a proud state born of grit, courage and sacrifice. It is shaped by culture, can-do spirit and southern generosity. Our Lone Star flag waves as a symbol of independence, respect and fierce determination. Here in Texas, we are the envy of many and rivaled by few.

So, join me today in taking a moment to reflect on our fearless freedom fighters who founded this great state against overwhelming odds. Their legacy lives large in the Lone Star State and I couldn’t be more proud to live in the land they fought so hard to win and call home.

Happy Texas Independence Day!

Honoring the Heroes of the Battle of San Jacinto

On April 21, 1836, Texans won a decisive battle. In about 18 minutes our Texas heroes won the battle of San Jacinto and the future of Texas was defined.

That same Texas spirit that drove Texans back then to put their lives on the line for a better life is still alive today. All across our grand state men and women are fighting to ensure Texas has a prosperous future. As Texans we need to support each other to be the best we can be, live honestly and work hard so we all can succeed.

On this day, I want to remind Texans of the sacrifices that were made to ensure that future generations could live an independent life. We should be thankful of our past and remind Texans that we have an obligation to continue this legacy and I can’t think of a better day to do that than on this day as we remember our heroes of San Jacinto.