The Battle of Alamo is one of the most famous conflicts in United States history, and it still inspires American patriotism today. The event took place during the Texas Revolution, a conflict during the early 1800s in the Texas region of the United States. The event is rooted deep in Texas’ history and the battle inspired revolutionaries toward victory in establishing the Republic of Texas. The conflict arose between the previously established Mexican government and United States immigrants; in 1835, the immigrants revolted and began a war against the Mexican government in an attempt to establish their own republic. This was the beginning of the Texas Revolution.

After a number of conflicts between Mexican and immigrant forces, the Battle of the Alamo began on February 23rd, 1836. The location – the Alamo – was a number of Roman Catholic religious buildings that also served as a fortress. Mexicans had owned the missionary until the immigrants, who referred to themselves as Texians, overtook the compound the year before the battle. As a result, Mexican government troops laid siege to the Alamo.

When Mexicans attacked, Texian forces were significantly outnumbered. The little over 200 volunteers on the Texian side faced a massive force of thousands on the Mexican’s side. Despite this, Texians refused the offer of surrender and endured a 13-day siege on the Alamo, keeping the Mexicans at bay for nearly an unprecedented two weeks. Texians sent out requests for reinforcements, but were left unaided for the entirety of the battle, and eventually the Mexicans began driving back their defenses. Many famous American figures were known to have fought in the battle, including David Crockett, James Bowie and William B. Travis. The fight continued until March 6th, when Mexican forces overwhelmed the Alamo’s defenses.

The number of Mexican deaths varies according to source. Some estimates put the death toll around 200, while others range as high as 1,500. Most experts agree, however, that only around 200 Mexicans died in the initial confrontation. On the Texans side, almost every single volunteer was killed. Only a handful would survive, and some estimates claim that out of the possible 250 men, only 2 lived through the assault. Much of the original Alamo buildings were significantly damaged or destroyed.

The Battle of the Alamo became a turning point in the Revolution. It inspired later Texians, which reportedly shouted ‘Remember the Alamo’ during battle. Today, the Alamo is preserved as a tourist destination.