Best Known For
Statesman Samuel Houston was a key political figure in the creation of the state of Texas. He was elected the first president of the Republic of Texas in 1836.
In addition, his views on slavery put him in conflict with the country's southern states. Although he was a slave owner himself, Houston was opposed to the expansion of slavery in the new territories.
Following the outbreak of the Civil War, Houston, who'd been elected governor of Texas, refused to pledge his allegiance to the Confederate States of America. An infuriated Texas legislature discharged him of his duties.
Houston, who had married for a third time in 1840, to Margaret Lea,
with whom he had eight children, retired from politics. He died at his home in Huntsville, Texas, on July 26, 1863.