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William Travis’ Letter to the People of Texas Common Core Literacy

M any Americans had moved to Texas and agreed to live under Mexican law. However, Mexican President Santa

Anna began to fear that as former U.S. citizens they would try to break away from Mexico. Thus, the Mexican

president had accompanied his army to prevent the Texans from seeking independence. Knowing the

movement of the Mexicans, leaders of Texas declared independence from Mexico on March 2, 1836.

However, the Texans also knew that their army was too small to face the Mexican army and needed time to gather their

forces. A group of Texans, under the leadership of William Travis, were holding the town of San Antonio in hopes of

stalling the Mexican army. Santa Anna and 1,800 of his troops surrounded the 180 Texans at the Alamo, a Spanish mission,

in San Antonio on February 23, 1836. The Texans were able to hold their position for 13 days. On March 6, 1836, Santa

Anna stormed the Alamo leaving only a few women and children alive. This letter, written by William Travis, was a plea for

more support. It also shows the courage of those seeking to live a life with freedom and liberty.

Big Idea Key Concept - The letter by William Travis to his fellow Texans reflects the idea of rights and

liberties. Americans believe that people have certain “God-given” rights that the government protects.

To The People of Texas and All Americans In The World --

February 24, 1836

Fellow citizens & compatriots --

I am besieged, by a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa

Anna -- I have sustained a continual Bombardment & cannonade for 24

hours & have not lost a man -- The enemy has demanded a surrender

at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword, if the

fort is taken -- I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, & our

flag still waves proudly from the walls -- I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on

you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism, & every thing dear to the American character, to

come to our aid, with all dispatch -- The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily & will no

doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected, I am

determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what

is due to his own honor & that of his country -- VICTORY OR DEATH

William Barret Travis

Lt. Col. Comdt.

Common Core– Supporting a claim with evidence. Name_____________________________ Period____

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Primary Source Analysis Chart

Historical Background Summary Primary Source Summary

Support Purpose

Summarize the historical background in 3-5 sentences.

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Main Idea Use your own words to describe the

main idea of the primary source.

Summarize the primary source in 3-5 sentences.

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Select 2-3 excerpts from the

primary source that best

support the main idea. Write

your selections in quotes below.

What is the purpose of the

document, or the intent of the

author?

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Primary Source Title_______________________________________

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