The Fight for Texas By: Brian, Saada, Caitlin, Trevor and Ben

Tejanos and African Americans The siege of Bexar divided the Tejanos in San Antonio. Most stayed neutral, some helped Cos, more than 100 of them joined the Texan Army of the people. There was scouting company commanded by Captain Juan Seguin. Many Tejanos served for the scouting company. Placido Benavides of Victoria brought 30 Mexican ranchers to fight. Manuel Flores of San Antonio volunteered to serve Seguin, his brother-in-law. Army of the people included African American fighters, Mexican ranchers, and Tejanos. General Cos

Tejanos and African Americans The government freed African Americans and Anglo colonists after Mexico gained independence from Spain. Hendrick Arnold was a free African American and guide to Milam’s column in the fight for San Antonio. Greenbury Logan, a free African American, was the third Texan wounded at San Antonio. William Goyens played an important role, good relations with the Cherokee, during the Texas revolution. Sam Houston relied on him to make sure that the Cherokees does not attack the Texans.

Tejanos and African Americans While the fighting was raging in San Antonio, the provisional government were also battling amongst themselves. Decisions were nearly impossible because of the War Party and Peace Party. The council favored efforts to cooperate with the Federalists in Mexico who supported the Constitution of Government Smith and the War Party favored a declaration of independence and total separation from Mexico. The difference between the two political party was plans for an expedition to Matamoros.

The Matamoros Expedition The port of Matamoros is located at the mouth of the Rio Grande. It was a great source of income. If Texans gain control of the port, it could help them use the income for the war and lead attacks to Mexico. Philip Dimmitt promoted the plan to take Matamoros. He thought that a Texan attack would have the support of the people of Matamoros gain strength for the movement.

Matamoros Expedition Francis W. Johnson was the leader of the Army of People at San Antonio,and he developed a similar plan as Philip. He drummed up support among the volunteers at Bexar. Then the government and the council argued who would lead the expedition. Francis W. Johnson

Matamoros Expedition Governor Smith didn’t trust Johnson rejected his appointment,but the council overrode the veto or rejection. On January 14, 1836, the council let Johnson take command of the expedition. Johnson didn’t let the council down.

Matamoros Expedition There were several events changed the situation in Texas: There were news that Santa Anna was marching with a large army toward San Antonio to recapture the Alamo. That ended all thought s of moving Texan fighters to the south.