We recently passed an anniversary of a moment in American history that is commonly overlooked by most living outside of Texas.

Monday was the 172nd anniversary of Texas winning its independence from Mexico in the Battle of San Jacinto.

Many people are aware of the Battle of the Alamo, where approximately 250 people attempted to free Texas in March 1836, with nearly all of the defenders perishing.

However, a month and a half later, Mexican General Santa Anna's troops were defeated, in 18 minutes, at the Battle of San Jacinto, which is just east of Houston and about five minutes from where I grew up.

Even though the Mexicans had the advantage going into this battle with approximately 1,400 soldiers, compared to 800 for the Republic of Texas, the Texans killed 630 and captured another 730 Mexican troops, including Santa Anna, all the while only losing nine of its own troops. To do that in only 18 minutes is truly an amazing effort.

What most people don't realize is how much of a national effort it was to give Texas its independence.

People from 21 states and six countries (Scotland, England, Ireland, Germany, Wales and Denmark) participated in the Battle of the Alamo. Keep in mind, at the time of these two battles, only 24 states had been admitted to the United States of America.

Obviously, the independence of Texas was important for the entire country.

It would take another nine years before Texas was admitted as part of the United States, but the territory the Republic of Texas consisted of included parts of modern-day Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Wyoming.

Also, by Texas winning its independence, America was able to continue its trek "from sea to shining sea," and helped make the country what it is today.

I am sure there are many other major battles across the nation which have contributed to the growth of this nation, but I would say the Battle of San Jacinto was an historically significant one, like the Alamo, and shouldn't be forgotten.

To view a list of heroes from the Alamo, visit www.the-alamo-san-antonio.com/html/alamo-heroes.ht....