Samuel Houston was an important American military and political leader in the 19th century. He is best known for his role in the Texas Revolution, where he led the Texian Army to victory against Mexico at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. This victory was crucial in securing Texas' independence from Mexican rule. After Texas became an independent republic, Houston served as its first president and later as a senator when Texas joined the United States. He was a prominent figure in the early history of Texas and played a significant role in its development as a state.