San Antonio TX - Frequently Asked Questions
San Antonio is known as the heart of Texas. This name has grown out of San Antonio's special place in Texas history. The city was the site of one of the most famous battles in Texas' fight for independence from Mexico. Once Texas became a part of the United States, Texas became an important educational, military and cultural center.In 1836, Texas was fighting for its independence after being a Mexican state for many years. A steady influx of American settlers had created and elaborated dissatisfaction with the policies of the Mexican government. As battles raged all over the area, General Santa Anna sought to make an important statement about Mexican rule by conquering San Antonio. Around 190 Texan army members and volunteers took refuge in an old Spanish mission known as the Alamo. There they withstood a siege by more than 2,000 Mexican troops. The siege ended when the Mexican army stormed the Alamo compound, and all of the defenders were killed. Casualties among the Mexican forces were estimated to be about 1,600 men - more than eight times the losses among the Texan defenders. The bravery of the defenders in the battle of the Alamo made it a major rallying point in the revolution. "Remember the Alamo" was the slogan used to inspire Texans to continue in their battle against the Mexicans, which was eventually won after years of fighting. When Texas became part of the United States, San Antonio became a major distribution point for settlers headed west. It also became a major cattle town, supplying markets for the many ranchers in the Texas grassland surrounding the city. 
During the Civil War, San Antonio became a Confederate Army Depot, raising supplies and units to aid the south's battle against the north.Following the Civil War, San Antonio boomed as a rail distribution point. Fort Sam Houston was opened, bringing a major military presence to the city that continues to this day. Many colleges and universities were opened, and today San Antonio stands as a major center of higher learning and biomedical research. Although San Antonio has the special distinction of being part of seven different nations over its history, its place in Texas history is unique and lasting. Long after the Republic of Texas ceased to exist, true Texans can be heard to "Remember the Alamo" as a symbol of Texas pride and determination.
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