Battle of San Jacinto
1836 · San Jacinto (near modern Houston, Texas, United States) · World · Modern
The Texian army surprised the Mexicans during their afternoon siesta and routed them within 18 minutes; Santa Anna was captured the next day
Belligerents
Texian army
- Commanders
- Sam Houston
- Strength
- c. 900 men
Mexican army
- Commanders
- Santa Anna
- Strength
- c. 1,400 men
Background
After the fall of the Alamo, Sam Houston led the Texian army in a long retreat east; Santa Anna split his forces to pursue, advancing deep with an isolated column.
Course of the battle
- RetreatHouston avoided a decisive battle and kept retreating east, to the discontent of his men
- Turning to face the enemySanta Anna's troops camped near the San Jacinto River with lax security
- Afternoon surprise attackOn the afternoon of April 21, the Texian army charged, shouting "Remember the Alamo"
- President capturedSanta Anna fled in disguise, was captured the next day, and signed orders for his troops to withdraw
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1836 |
|---|---|
| Place | San Jacinto (near present-day Houston, Texas, United States) |
| Result | The Texian army surprised the Mexicans during their afternoon siesta and routed them within 18 minutes; Santa Anna was captured the next day |
| Winner | Texas |
| Casualties | Mexican army killed, wounded and captured about 1,300; Texian army dead about 10 |
| Territorial change | Santa Anna was forced to recognize Texan independence |
Impact
The Battle of San Jacinto decided Texan independence; ten years later Texas was annexed by the United States, triggering the Mexican–American War.
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