Battle of San Patricio

The Battle of San Patricio: A Turning Point in the Texas Revolution

Imagine a pivotal moment in history, where the fate of an entire region hung in the balance. That’s what we’re talking about when we discuss the Battle of San Patricio, fought on February 27, 1836, during the Texas Revolution. This battle was more than just a skirmish; it was a clash that would shape the future of an entire state.

The Prelude to War: The Matamoros Expedition

Before we dive into the battle itself, let’s set the stage. By late 1835, all Mexican troops had been driven from Texas, but tensions were high. President Antonio López de Santa Anna was pushing for a more centralized government in Mexico, banning slavery and immigration. This shift led to widespread unrest among immigrants, slave-owners, and federalists in Coahuila y Tejas.

Under these circumstances, the Texans took up arms against what they saw as oppressive policies. In October 1835, they declared themselves part of a Mexican state independent from Coahuila and created a provisional government that permitted slavery. By the end of the year, all Mexican troops had been expelled from Texas.

The Matamoros Expedition: A Plan Gone Wrong

Leading federalists in Mexico advocated attacking Mexican troops in Matamoros, a major port city. The plan was approved by the General Council on December 25, and Frank W. Johnson led a group of Texians to San Patricio to prepare for the expedition. Johnson took most of his men and supplies to Goliad to prepare for an expedition.

Meanwhile, Santa Anna assembled a large force to quash the rebellion, numbering over 6,000 soldiers by December. In late December, Congress passed the Tornel Decree, declaring foreigners fighting against Mexican troops would be considered pirates and dealt with as such. Santa Anna led his troops inland to San Antonio de Béxar and ordered General José de Urrea to lead a campaign along the Atascocita Road toward Goliad.

The Battle: A Brief but Fierce Encounter

On February 18, Mexican General José de Urrea led his troops into Texas, catching Texian soldiers off guard. The battle that ensued was brief but fierce. Most Texian soldiers were killed or imprisoned, while Mexican soldiers suffered fewer casualties.

The remaining survivors joined Fannin’s troops and were later killed in the Goliad Massacre. Eleven Texians were killed outright, five suffered mortal wounds, 21 others were taken prisoner. Six local men were arrested for aiding the rebellion, with some reportedly executed immediately. Urrea questioned prisoners and there were reports of torture. All prisoners were dead within 72 hours.

The Aftermath: A Battle Remembered

Urrea’s official records state the battle was fought at Fort Lipantitlán, but Texian accounts say it occurred in town and at de la Garza ranch. Urrea ambushed Texians at Agua Dulce Creek on March 2 after learning of their whereabouts from local spies.

The Battle of San Patricio remains a significant event in the history of Texas. It was a turning point that highlighted the growing tensions between Texans and Mexican authorities, setting the stage for further conflicts like the Goliad Massacre.

The Battle of San Patricio was a critical moment in the Texas Revolution, marking the beginning of a series of events that would ultimately lead to the independence of Texas. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those who fought for freedom and self-determination.