Located just a short distance outside of Houston, the San Jacinto Battlefield is one of Texas’ most significant, yet least recognizable historic sites. The Battle of San Jacinto, which took place on April 21, 1836, won Texas its independence from Mexico. The Texan Army, commanded by Gen. Sam Houston, captured General Santa Anna – Mexico’s dictator and leader of the Mexican troops. However, rather than execute the captured leader, the Texans allowed him to return to Mexico after he promised to lobby the Mexican government to recognize Texas as a sovereign nation.
Although Texas joined the United States 10 years later, the battle’s significance was not diminished. In fact, the Battle of San Jacinto actually paved the way for Texas statehood. Had the Texans not gained their independence, the United States may not have been willing to risk war with Mexico to gain the territory.
The San Jacinto Monument, which stands 15 feet taller than the Washington Monument, was completed in 1939. The San Jacinto Museum of History is housed in the base of the monument. The San Jacinto Monument and Museum is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
