This detailed campaign map traces the major military movements, battles, and turning points of the Texas Revolution in 1835 and 1836.
Read our full article on the Texas Revolution to explore how a regional revolt became a full-scale war for independence—and gave birth to the Republic of Texas.
Campaign Timeline
October 2, 1835 – Battle of Gonzales
Texians resist Mexican troops sent to reclaim a cannon, firing the first shots of the revolution.
October 9, 1835 – Capture of Goliad
Texian forces seize Presidio La Bahía, cutting off the Mexican garrison at San Antonio from coastal support.
October 28, 1835 – Battle of Concepción
James Bowie and James Fannin lead Texians in a successful ambush of a Mexican column near Mission Concepción.
December 5–9, 1835 – Siege and Surrender at San Antonio (Béxar)
Texians assault General Cós’s fortified position. After intense house-to-house fighting, Cós surrenders and withdraws from Texas with his troops.
February 16, 1836 – Santa Anna crosses the Rio Grande
Santa Anna marches north with over 6,000 troops to reestablish control over Texas and crush the rebellion.
February 23 – March 6, 1836 – Siege and Battle of the Alamo
Santa Anna’s forces surround the Alamo. On March 6, they overrun the mission, killing all defenders.
March 2, 1836 – Texas Declaration of Independence
Delegates at Washington-on-the-Brazos declare independence from Mexico, forming the Republic of Texas.
March 2–20, 1836 – Urrea’s Coastal Advance
General Urrea defeats scattered Texian forces at San Patricio, Refugio, and Agua Dulce while advancing toward Goliad.
March 14–19, 1836 – Fannin delays retreat from Goliad
James Fannin lingers at Presidio La Bahía. His indecision leaves his force exposed.
March 19–20, 1836 – Battle of Coleto Creek
Fannin’s Texians are surrounded and forced to surrender to Urrea under promises of humane treatment.
March 27, 1836 – Goliad Massacre
Santa Anna overrides Urrea and orders the execution of over 400 Texian prisoners outside Goliad.
March–April 1836 – Runaway Scrape
Texian civilians and officials flee eastward ahead of Santa Anna’s advancing army. Sam Houston avoids direct engagement, buying time to train his forces.
April 20, 1836 – Skirmish at San Jacinto
Advance elements of the two armies exchange fire near Buffalo Bayou.
April 21, 1836 – Battle of San Jacinto
Houston’s army launches a surprise afternoon attack on Santa Anna’s camp. The Mexican army is routed in under 20 minutes. Santa Anna is captured the next day, effectively ending the war.
