The leader of the Texas constitutional convention of 1836 was Sam Houston. He played a significant role in the Texas Revolution, but his decisions and actions had far-reaching consequences.
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Reinforcements not arriving in time to help the Texans at the Alamo: Houston was cautious of engaging in battles without adequate preparation and resources. His decision to avoid committing his troops to the defense of the Alamo contributed to the eventual fall of the stronghold in early March 1836.
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Sam Houston's troops retreating east across Texas: After the fall of the Alamo, Houston ordered a retreat of his forces to regroup and avoid confrontation with Santa Anna's advancing army. This strategic withdrawal was intended to preserve his forces for a decisive battle later.
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James Fannin and his men getting trapped at Goliad: Houston's decision to retreat also left James Fannin and his troops vulnerable. Fannin, who was supposed to join forces with Houston, was ultimately surrounded by Mexican troops at Goliad and surrendered. This led to the Goliad Massacre, where many Texan soldiers were executed.
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Mexican government demanding the cannon at Gonzales: The initial conflict that ignited the Texan struggle for independence stemmed from the Battle of Gonzales in October 1835, in which the settlers resisted Mexican authority's request to return a cannon. The phrase "Come and Take It" became a rallying cry for Texan independence.
In summary, Sam Houston's leadership and strategic decisions during the Texas Revolution had a profound impact on the outcomes at the Alamo and Goliad. His choices maintained the overall Texan resistance against Mexican forces, ultimately leading to the victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.
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