Texas Revolution and Statehood Practice

1 answer

Sure! Here’s an overview of the Texas Revolution and the subsequent statehood, along with some practice questions you can use to test your knowledge.

Overview of the Texas Revolution (1835-1836)

The Texas Revolution was a rebellion against Mexican rule in Texas due to a variety of factors, including political, cultural, and economic tensions. Here are some key points:

  1. Causes: The increasing tension between Texas settlers (many of whom were American migrants) and the Mexican government over issues like slavery, immigration, and governance.

  2. Key Events:

    • Battle of Gonzales (October 1835): The first military engagement of the Texas Revolution.
    • Siege of Bexar (October-December 1835): Texan forces laid siege to San Antonio, leading to the capture of the Alamo.
    • The Alamo (February-March 1836): A pivotal event where Texan defenders, including famous figures like William B. Travis, James Bowie, and Davy Crockett, were killed after a siege by Mexican forces led by General Santa Anna.
    • Battle of San Jacinto (April 21, 1836): The decisive battle where Texan forces led by Sam Houston defeated Santa Anna’s army, leading to the capture of Santa Anna and securing Texas independence.
  3. Texas Independence: Following their victory at San Jacinto, the Republic of Texas was established in 1836, with Sam Houston as its first president.

Path to Statehood

  1. Republic of Texas: After declaring independence, Texas was an independent republic from 1836 to 1845, but it faced numerous challenges, including economic difficulties and conflicts with Native American tribes.

  2. Annexation: The United States was interested in annexing Texas, partly due to the concept of Manifest Destiny. After years of negotiation, Texas was admitted to the Union on December 29, 1845, becoming the 28th state.

  3. Consequences: The annexation of Texas contributed to tensions between the U.S. and Mexico, leading to the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).

Practice Questions

  1. What event is considered the first military engagement of the Texas Revolution?

    • A) The Alamo
    • B) Battle of Gonzales
    • C) Battle of San Jacinto
    • D) Siege of Bexar
  2. Who was the president of the Republic of Texas during its early years?

    • A) Stephen F. Austin
    • B) Sam Houston
    • C) James K. Polk
    • D) Davy Crockett
  3. In what year did Texas officially become a state of the United States?

    • A) 1836
    • B) 1845
    • C) 1850
    • D) 1861
  4. What was a significant consequence of the annexation of Texas?

    • A) A peaceful resolution with Mexico
    • B) The end of the Mexican-American War
    • C) Increased tensions leading to the Mexican-American War
    • D) Texas becoming a part of Mexico again
  5. Which of the following battles was a turning point in the Texas Revolution?

    • A) Siege of Bexar
    • B) Battle of San Jacinto
    • C) Goliad Massacre
    • D) Battle of Gonzales

Answers:

  1. B) Battle of Gonzales
  2. B) Sam Houston
  3. B) 1845
  4. C) Increased tensions leading to the Mexican-American War
  5. B) Battle of San Jacinto

Feel free to ask for more information or clarification on any specific aspect!