Why was Sam Houston important?

Answer 1

The results matter. At the Battle of San Jacinto, Houston achieved a clear and certain victory over the Mexican Army. He was in command. Nothing that he personally did contributed to that brief, historical moment. Possible arrogance on the part of Santa Anna contributed. The Twin Sisters made a contribution. "Deef" Smith did not contribute to victory by burning the bridges behind them, because few knew that it had happened. The flanking Cavalry under Colonel Mirabeau Lamar who the day before was an unknown Texas private played almost no part in the victory. Sleeping and unobservant Mexican pickets made a difference.

Sam Houston was a known commodity prior to San Jacinto and a heroic figure after that battle. Results Matter.