March 2, 1836

Definition

March 2, 1836, marks the date when Texas declared its independence from Mexico, becoming a sovereign nation. This pivotal moment is crucial in understanding the broader narrative of Texas' relationship with the United States, as it set the stage for future events, including the eventual annexation of Texas into the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Texas Declaration of Independence was signed at Washington-on-the-Brazos by delegates representing various settlements in Texas.
2. The declaration expressed dissatisfaction with Mexican government policies, including the lack of representation and the suspension of local governance.
3. March 2, 1836, is now celebrated as Texas Independence Day, commemorating the bravery and determination of those who fought for freedom.
4. The struggle for independence culminated in the famous Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836, where Texan forces achieved a decisive victory over Mexican troops.
5. Following independence, Texas existed as an independent republic for nearly a decade before joining the United States in 1845.

Review Questions

• How did the events leading up to March 2, 1836, reflect the tensions between Texians and the Mexican government?
  • Leading up to March 2, 1836, tensions between Texians and the Mexican government grew due to issues like cultural differences, immigration policies, and centralist rule imposed by Santa Anna. Texians were frustrated with the lack of political representation and civil liberties. These grievances fueled a desire for independence, culminating in the formal declaration on March 2, which articulated their demands for self-governance and individual rights.
• What role did Sam Houston play during and after March 2, 1836, in shaping Texas' future?
  • Sam Houston emerged as a central figure in the Texas Revolution and played a crucial role after March 2, 1836. As commander-in-chief of the Texian army, he led forces to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas' independence. Subsequently, Houston served as the first president of the Republic of Texas, advocating for its eventual annexation into the United States to ensure security and stability for the new nation.
• Evaluate how March 2, 1836, influenced both domestic policies within Texas and international relations with Mexico and the United States.
  • The declaration on March 2, 1836, significantly influenced domestic policies in Texas by establishing a framework for governance and national identity separate from Mexico. This new independent republic faced challenges in creating laws and maintaining order. Internationally, it strained relations with Mexico, which viewed Texas' independence as a rebellion against its sovereignty. The event also set in motion a desire for annexation by the United States, reflecting larger geopolitical interests that would ultimately lead to tensions over slavery and territorial expansion in North America.

Related terms

Texas Declaration of Independence: A formal statement adopted on March 2, 1836, asserting Texas' independence from Mexico and outlining the grievances against Mexican rule.

Sam Houston: A key leader in the Texas Revolution and the first president of the Republic of Texas, instrumental in the fight for independence from Mexico.

Republic of Texas: The independent nation that existed from 1836 until it was annexed by the United States in 1845, following the declaration of independence.