The Battle of Gonzales was the first military engagement of the Texas Revolution, occurring on October 2, 1835. The conflict arose when Texian settlers refused to return a small cannon to the Mexican government, which had been used to defend against Native American attacks. The settlers, led by John H. Moore, raised a flag that read "Come and Take It," signaling their determination to resist Mexican authority. The battle involved a skirmish between about 180 Texian volunteers and a small Mexican force commanded by Lieutenant Francisco de Castañeda. The Texians successfully defended their position, marking a significant moment in the struggle for Texas independence from Mexico. This event galvanized support for the Texian cause and set the stage for further confrontations in the revolution.