The Creek War

In a battle against the Creek Indians, young Sam Houston was severely wounded while leading a charge. His heroism began to catch the eye of his general, Andrew Jackson and eventually they struck up a friendship.

Tennessee

Sam Houston grew up in Tennessee and after a successful law practice, he entered Tennessee politics to aid Andrew Jackson in his presidential campaign. He rose to governor of Tennessee but resigned in disgrace after his wife left him.

Indian Dress

For several years, Sam Houston worked as a diplomat for the Indians, and especially the Cherokee Indians. In many meetings with U.S. officials, Houston showed his solidarity with the Indians by dressing like them. In one famous encounter with John Calhoun, Calhoun scolded Houston for his costume, and Houston and Calhoun became lifelong enemies.

San Jacinto

Sam Houston, as commander of the Texas army, defeated Mexican...