Video: 'Sam Houston: One of the Most Remarkable Figures in American History (1993)'

(Monday, September 5, 1836) — Popular war hero Samuel Houston was elected today the first president of the Republic of Texas in a decisive victory over Henry Smith and Stephen F. Austin.

Houston was inaugurated on October 22, 1836, replacing interim president David G. Burnet.

Video: 'Sam Houston Lives On - In Texas Museum'