Texas won its independence from Mexico with the battle cry “Remember the Alamo!” But just what exactly was the Alamo, and what happened there to change the history of the United States? This is a comprehensive look at that famous siege as well as its background and consequences. It provides profiles of the famous men who died there, many quotes from contemporary witnesses (including entries from the memoirs and diaries of Mexican soldiers), fascinating details about everything from the weaponry of the time to the fate of the women and children who followed the Mexican army north, and a rousing description of the final battle–all copiously illustrated with paintings, photos, maps, diagrams, and more. This is history at its vivid and exciting best.