school titles, statues, state parks and one famously large city, Sam Houston came from a unique upbringing. Born into a military family in 1793, Houston's parents, Major Sam Houston and Elizabeth Paxton Houston, had nine children of which Sam Houston was the fifth child. Early in Houston's life, his father's sudden death encouraged the family to move to Tennessee. Indians. Adopted by Chief Oo-Loo-Te-Ka, and given the name "The Raven," Houston developed a broadened respect for Indians. This later influenced his military and political career. At 19, he enlisted in the military, was used as a sub-agent in dealings with Indians. He even led a delegation of Indians to Washington D.C. Eventually, Houston turned his attention to the study of law, passing the bar after six months of study. and legacy grew. Opponents were often infuriated by Houston's common practice of whittling throughout their passionate speeches. Houston remained outspoken and steadfast, almost immoveable and not deterred by the antics of his constituents. Michael Sproat, Curator of the Sam Houston Memorial Museum in Huntsville. "Sam Houston knew what to say and when to say it. He stood out a lot in his political views." Jackson. Their relationship led him to Texas, to relay notes to Jackson on the state of the region. In Texas, Houston started his military life as a commander in chief. Houston's army of 800 defeated Santa Anna's Mexican legion of 1600 men at the Battle of San Jacinto, which occurred directly after the fall of the Alamo. first President of the Republic of Texas. After a two-term presidency, he also held the title of Senator and Governor of Texas. He was instrumental for the state's survival by fostering its relationship with the United States. As argued the need for Texas to rejoin the Union. states. "He campaigned and asked them to reform separate from the Confederacy, because when the Civil War blew over, he would be able to merge back in to the U.S. under good terms." legacies. A survivor of war guns and politicians, Houston succumbed to pneumonia on July 26th 1863, leaving behind a statement of life, unity and character for future Texans and American citizens to admire. |