The annual Fiesta celebration across San Antonio memorializes the Battle of the Alamo and a victory at the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21,1836 during the Texas Revolution.
According to The History Channel, the loss at the Alamo became a symbol of resistance to oppression and struggle for independence for the Texas militia.
So, Sam Houston's men launched a surprise attack against Santa Anna's men along the San Jacinto River. According to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the battle was 18 minutes long and happened mid-afternoon.
A celebration is held on this day every year at the San Jacinto Monument and Battlefield.
As for Fiesta -- it was all started by a group of citizens in 1891 who wanted to honor the heroes of the two battles. According to the Fiesta Commission, those citizens came up with the idea to have a Battle of Flowers. The parade was an immediate success and more events grew around the parade, including a carnival, balls and coronations of "royalty."
The Fiesta Commission's website says the celebration has happened every year except for 1918 during World War 1 and from 1942 to 1945.
For an interactive look at the battleground as it was then and now, check out the San Jacinto Museum's website.
