Goliad Massacre

Definition

The Goliad Massacre refers to the execution of approximately 342 Texian prisoners of war by the Mexican Army on March 27, 1836, during the Texas Revolution. This tragic event, which took place near Goliad, Texas, highlighted the brutal nature of the conflict and served to galvanize support for Texian independence as it underscored the dire consequences faced by those opposing Mexican rule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Goliad Massacre occurred after the Battle of Coleto when Fannin's Command surrendered to Mexican forces under General José de Urrea.
2. Santa Anna ordered the execution of the Texian soldiers at Goliad, viewing them as rebels rather than prisoners of war, which was a significant violation of military ethics at that time.
3. This event intensified anti-Mexican sentiment among Texians and fueled their resolve to fight for independence, ultimately leading to a rallying cry: 'Remember Goliad!'
4. The Goliad Massacre was one of several key events in the Texas Revolution, alongside the more famous Battle of the Alamo, that shaped public perception and motivated Texian forces.
5. In response to the massacre, Texian forces under Sam Houston launched a surprise attack against Santa Anna's troops at the Battle of San Jacinto, leading to a decisive victory for Texian independence.

Review Questions

• How did the Goliad Massacre impact Texian morale and military strategy during the Texas Revolution?
  • The Goliad Massacre had a profound effect on Texian morale as it served as a brutal reminder of the risks they faced in their fight for independence. The execution of Fannin's Command galvanized support among Texians and fueled a desire for revenge against Mexican forces. This heightened sense of urgency influenced military strategies, leading Sam Houston to focus on swift and decisive actions that ultimately culminated in the victory at San Jacinto.
• Evaluate the role of Santa Anna in the Goliad Massacre and its implications for his leadership during the Texas Revolution.
  • Santa Anna's role in the Goliad Massacre showcased his ruthless approach to governance and military command, prioritizing suppression over mercy. By ordering these executions, he aimed to intimidate Texians and deter further rebellion; however, this decision backfired as it united many against him. The massacre tarnished his reputation and revealed his inability to maintain control over a burgeoning independence movement, ultimately leading to his defeat at San Jacinto.
• Analyze how geographic factors surrounding Goliad contributed to the events leading up to the massacre and its aftermath.
  • The geographic location of Goliad was strategic during the Texas Revolution, positioned between key locations like San Antonio and Victoria. This made it a focal point for both Texian and Mexican forces. The area's rugged terrain complicated military logistics but also provided an opportunity for surprise attacks. Following the massacre, Goliad became symbolic in Texian history; its geography facilitated quick troop movements towards other battles like San Jacinto, allowing for an effective response that leveraged both geography and heightened resolve among Texians seeking justice.

Related terms

Texas Revolution: A rebellion of colonists in Texas against Mexican rule that lasted from 1835 to 1836, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Republic of Texas.

Santa Anna: The President of Mexico and General of the Mexican Army during the Texas Revolution, known for his authoritarian rule and role in ordering the executions at Goliad.

Fannin's Command: The group of Texian soldiers led by Colonel James Fannin who were captured at Goliad and subsequently executed in the massacre.