Exploring the Texas Revolution

In 1835, Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana centralized power in Mexico, upsetting Texans who favored state autonomy. This led to the formation of peace and war parties, with the latter gaining momentum after Stephen F. Austin's return from imprisonment. Santa Ana's repressive actions, including the violent suppression of Zacatecas, further pushed Texans towards war. The skirmish at Gonzales marked the beginning of open conflict. In November 1835, Texans held a consultation, deciding to fight for statehood under the 1824 Constitution. They formed a professional army led by Sam Houston. By December, Texans captured San Antonio, expelling Mexican forces, setting the stage for further conflict.

What significant change did Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana implement in the Mexican government in 1835?

• He established a federalist government.

• He abolished the Mexican government.

• He decentralized the government.

• He installed a centralist government.

Why were many Texans upset with Santa Ana's centralist government?

• It increased taxes.

• It banned all forms of trade.

• It limited Anglo immigration and reinstated slavery.

• It centralized power in Mexico City, making statehood irrelevant.

What was the main argument of the Peace Party in Texas?

• To negotiate with Santa Ana for more power.

• To join the United States immediately.

• To wait for another federalist revolt to overthrow Santa Ana.

• To fight for independence from Mexico.

What did the War Party in Texas advocate for?

• Negotiating with Santa Ana for more autonomy.

• Joining the United States without a fight.

• Fighting for the restoration of the 1824 Constitution and separate statehood.

• Immediate peace with Santa Ana.

What event pushed many Texans towards the idea of war in 1835?

• The return of Stephen F. Austin from imprisonment.

• A natural disaster.

• The arrival of new settlers.

• A successful negotiation with Santa Ana.

What was the significance of the violence in Gonzales in October 1835?

• It caused the Texans to surrender to Mexican forces.

• It led to the immediate independence of Texas.

• It resulted in a peace treaty with Santa Ana.

• It marked the beginning of open conflict between Texas and Mexico.

What decision did Texas leaders make during the Consultation of 1835?

• To surrender to Santa Ana.

• To join the United States immediately.

• To fight for the restoration of the 1824 Constitution and separate statehood within Mexico.

• To fight for independence from Mexico.

Who was chosen to lead the newly formed professional army of Texas?

• Sam Houston

• Antonio Lopez de Santa Ana

• Henry Smith

• Stephen F. Austin

What was one of the main challenges Sam Houston faced in forming the professional army?

• Insufficient land to offer as incentives.

• Opposition from Stephen F. Austin.

• Difficulty in recruiting soldiers.

• Lack of support from the United States.

What was the primary goal of the Texans after the Consultation of 1835?

• To declare immediate independence from Mexico.

• To restore the 1824 Constitution and achieve separate statehood within Mexico.

• To join the United States as a new state.

• To negotiate a peace treaty with Santa Ana.