The First Texan - Alchetron, The Free Social Encyclopedia

Having left his post as governor of Tennessee, Gen. Sam Houston (Joel McCrea) resettles in Mexican territory along the southwest U.S. border. He soon sets his sights on reclaiming the land under the aegis of Texas independence, while romancing post-divorce new love interest Katherine Delaney (Felicia Farr). His efforts eventually lead to the historic Battle of San Jacinto and a very clever bit of battlefield strategy by Houston in his fight against forces led by Gen. Santa Anna.

After arriving in Texas to escape a scandal back east, lawyer Sam Houston just wants to hang out his shingle, keep a low profile, and stay out of any political intrigue. However, when President Jackson personally orders him to lead the fight for Texan independence, he overcomes his reluctance to become involved and leads his compatriots to a string of victories over the Mexican army.

Plot

Sam Houston, a lawyer and former Governor of Tennessee, travels to San Antonio, Texas to begin a new life. He encounters Jim Bowie, who is determined to free the territory from Mexicos rule.

Bowie is tried for treason. Houston represents him in court and successfully argues that the charge against Bowie must be dismissed because Mexico was not under martial law at the time.

Katherine Delaney comes into Houstons life. He is still married back home, but separated and dictates a letter requesting a formal divorce. Katherine will not become involved with Houston unless he promises not to become actively involved in the fight to free Texas.

Davy Crockett relays a message from U.S. president Andrew Jackson, who wants Houston to lead the revolution. There are not enough troops at the Alamo to hold off General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and the large Mexican army. And when Houston appears to be in full retreat, some of his men begin to feel he must be replaced.

It turns out Houston was planning a surprise attack. His forces are told to "remember the Alamo" and they proceed to overwhelm Santa Anna and his men. Texas is declared a free republic and Sam Houston its first president, a movement that eventually will lead to statehood.