Mier Expedetion

Mier Expedition

In response to several Mexican invasions of Texas during Sam Houston's 2nd presidency, about 300 Texans entered the small Mexican village of Mier and demanded supplies from the townspeople on December 23, 1842. The next day, around 700 Mexican troops arrived to defend Mier. On Christmas Day, the bloody battle lasted for hours. Low on ammunition, cut off from escape, and with no hope of reinforcements, the Texans eventually surrendered.

Mier Expedition

As the prisoners were marched to Mexico City, they attempted an escape. A few got away, many died in the wilderness from starvation or exposure, and 176 were recaptured and returned to Saltillo. Santa Anna ordered the execution of all of the prisoners, but the governor of Coahuila decided to execute only 10%. They had the prisoners draw lots using a clay jar filled with 159 white beans and 17 black beans. Thos who drew black beans were executed, and those who drew white beans were spared.

Mier Expedition

The remaining Texans were then Marched to the Mexican state of Vera Cruz and imprisoned in Perote Prison. Most of them died of their wounds, disease, or starvation. After over a year in captivity, the surviving captives were gradually released, the last one in September 1844.

Mier Expedition

The Mier Expedition, and the following black bean executions, led to increased tensions between The Republic of Texas and Mexico. Sam Houston's desire to have peaceful relations with Mexico was tested almost to the breaking point. Skirmishes between the two countries continued to happen, and Meixco continued refusing to recognize Texas' independence.

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