Goliad Declaration of Independence facts for kids
The Goliad Declaration of Independence was an important document signed on December 20, 1835. It happened at a place called Presidio La Bahía in what was then Mexican Texas. This declaration was a step towards Texas becoming independent from Mexico.
Why Texans Wanted Independence
This declaration was signed by 91 people. They were a mix of Texan colonists (people who had moved to Texas) and Tejanos (Mexicans who lived in Texas). They lived in settlements along the Gulf Coast of Mexico. All of them wanted Texas to break away from Mexico and become its own independent state.
The document was written by Ira Ingram. He was the alcalde (which means mayor) of Matagorda. This declaration was an early step, coming before the more famous Texas Declaration of Independence.
However, when the Goliad Declaration reached the Consultation in San Felipe de Austin, it was seen as too early. The Consultation was a meeting of Texas leaders. At that time, Texans were not all in agreement. Some wanted full independence from Mexico. Others wanted Texas to remain part of Mexico, but only if the 1824 Mexican Constitution was brought back. This constitution gave states more power.
Because there wasn't a clear agreement, the Goliad Declaration was effectively put aside. It was sent to a committee and later just filed away. It didn't lead to immediate independence.
