The Battle of the Alamo is one of the most famous events in Texas history and a turning point in the Texas Revolution. It took place at the Alamo Mission in San Antonio de Béxar from February 23 to March 6, 1836, when a small group of Texian defenders held out against the larger Mexican army commanded by General Antonio López de Santa Anna.
Background
In December 1835, Texian forces captured San Antonio after the Siege of Béxar, forcing Mexican troops out of the region. The rebels took over the Alamo, a former Spanish mission converted into a fortress. Expecting a counterattack, they strengthened the defenses under the leadership of William B. Travis and James Bowie, with frontiersman Davy Crockett and his Tennessee volunteers joining the garrison.
The Siege and Final Assault
Santa Anna’s army of 1,500–2,000 soldiers surrounded the mission on February 23, 1836. For 13 days, the defenders, numbering around 180–250, endured bombardments and repeated calls to surrender, which they refused. In the early hours of March 6, Mexican troops launched a final assault. They scaled the walls and broke through the defenses after fierce fighting. Almost all of the Texian defenders were killed, including Travis, Bowie, and Crockett. A few noncombatants, including Susanna Dickinson, were spared to spread word of the defeat. Mexican losses are estimated at 400–600 killed or wounded.
Significance and Legacy
Although the battle ended in a Mexican victory, the courage of the outnumbered Texians made the Alamo a lasting symbol of resistance. During the Texas Revolution, the phrase “Remember the Alamo!” rallied Texian troops and inspired support from volunteers in the United States. Only weeks later, on April 21, 1836, Texian forces under Sam Houston defeated Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto, winning Texas independence.
Today, the Alamo stands as a historic site and museum in downtown San Antonio, visited by millions each year. It remains a symbol of sacrifice, perseverance, and the fight for freedom.
Quick Facts
-
Date: February 23 – March 6, 1836
-
Location: San Antonio de Béxar, Texas
-
Texian Leaders: William B. Travis, James Bowie, Davy Crockett (volunteer)
-
Mexican Leader: General Antonio López de Santa Anna
-
Forces: Texians ~180–250; Mexicans ~1,500–2,000
-
Casualties: Texians ~180–200 killed; Mexicans ~400–600 killed or wounded
-
Result: Mexican victory; inspired Texian independence
Photos:
Battle of the Alamo
