How many patriots does it take to make a difference?
In Texas, it was only 18. That’s how many men went out to meet over 100 Mexican dragoons who came to take their weapons.
We’re not exactly sure what role they played that first day. Some say they fired the first shot of the revolution. Some say they were only watchmen and guards.
No matter. They defended their principles. These are the men who stood their ground.
- William W. Arrington
- Simeon Bateman
- Valentine Bennet
- Joseph D. Clements
- Almond Cottle
- Jacob C. Darst
- George W. Davis
- Almeron Dickinson
- Graves Fulshear
- Benjamin Fuqua
- James B. Hinds
- Thomas J. Jackson
- Albert Martin
- Charles Mason
- Thomas Redd Miller
- John Newton Sowell
- Winslow Turner Sr.
- Ezekiel Williams
Did they know that morning as they picked up their rifles that they were going out to make history? Do any of us know, on any given day, what choices we might make that will change everything?
Eighteen men stood firm in Gonzales on September 29, 1835.
But by September 30, there were 150.
Teaching Tip:
- Do you think a few people–or even just one person–can have an effect?
- How important is it to stand on principles, even if you’re the only one standing?
