The American Republic To 1877 © 2007

"Texas Independence"

Introduction
In this chapter you have read about the growth of the United States across the continent to the Pacific Ocean. Americans and other immigrants moved into Texas at the invitation of the Mexican government. After several years, however, the Mexican government realized that these new settlers were determined to follow their own rules. The Texans resented the restrictions that the Mexican government began to impose on them. This led to the war for Texas independence. One of the most famous battles of this war took place in San Antonio at the Alamo.

Destination Title: The Alamo

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Directions
Start at the Alamo Web site.

• Click on The Battle, then History to learn about the Alamo’s background.
• At top of page, click on Visitor Information, then Frequently Asked Questions. Explore the topics presented.

1			What was the original name and purpose of the Alamo?
2			How did the Texans first come to occupy the Alamo during the war for independence?
3			On what day did Santa Anna's siege of the Alamo begin? When did it end?
4			Were there survivors at the Alamo? How many?
5			Return to the main screen and click on The Defenders. Choose five of the defenders of the Alamo, and use an index card or small piece of paper to create a trading card for each. On one side draw or paste a picture, or create an icon or graphic that represents the person. On the other side of the card write facts about their life and their part in the defense of the Alamo. Share your cards with the rest of the class.