The Battle of the Alamo

The Battle of the Alamo happened in 1836 in San Antonio, Texas. Texas was fighting to become free from Mexico. About 200 Texans hid inside an old mission called the Alamo. A big Mexican army attacked them. The battle became famous in American history.

The Siege

For 13 days, the Mexican army surrounded the Alamo. Inside were famous men like Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and William Travis. They bravely held out against thousands of soldiers. They hoped that help would come from other Texans.

A painting showing the famous battle at the Alamo fort.
A painting showing the famous battle at the Alamo fort. (Theodore Gentilz / Wikimedia Commons)

The Famous Battle

On March 6, 1836, the Mexican army attacked before dawn. The defenders fought hard but were outnumbered. Almost all of the Texans in the Alamo died. But their bravery inspired others. Texans shouted 'Remember the Alamo!' and later won their freedom.

Fun Facts

  • Davy Crockett was a famous frontiersman who wore a coonskin cap.
  • The Alamo was first built as a church, not a fort.
  • People still visit the Alamo in Texas today, and it's a famous landmark.

Did You Know?

Texas became its own country called the Republic of Texas before joining the United States in 1845.