Who served as both commander of the Texan Army and President of Texas?

• A. Sam Houston
• B. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
• C. William Travis
• D. James Bowie

Answer: (A)

This question tests recognizing a leader who held both military and political roles in Texas history. Sam Houston is the best answer because he led the Texan Army to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas independence from Mexico. After independence, he was elected President of the Republic of Texas, serving two terms and guiding the new nation through its early challenges, including relations with other powers and the push toward eventual annexation by the United States. The other figures were important in Texas/Mexican history—Santa Anna was the Mexican general and leader opposing Texas, while Travis and Bowie were notable defenders at the Alamo—but neither served as commander of the Texan Army and also held the office of President of the Republic of Texas.