The Black Bean Episode and Mier Expedition

The video covers the Somerville and Mier expeditions during the Texas-Mexico conflicts. Sam Houston ordered Alexander Somerville to lead a show of force to the Rio Grande, which resulted in the occupation of Laredo and Guerrero without resistance. Discontented with the lack of action, some Texians, led by William S. Fisher, initiated the Mier Expedition, which ended in a disastrous battle and surrender. The infamous Black Bean Episode followed, where prisoners drew beans to determine their fate, leading to executions and imprisonment. The video highlights the challenges and consequences faced by the Texians during these expeditions.

What was the primary purpose of Somerville's expedition to the Rio Grande?

• To establish a new settlement

• To appease the citizens of South Texas

• To capture Mexican territories

• To engage in a full-scale war with Mexico

Why did some of Somerville's men refuse to return home?

• They were lost and couldn't find their way back

• They were ordered by the President

• They were promised more money

• They wanted to continue fighting for Texas pride

What was the outcome of the initial encounter at Mier?

• The Texians retreated without a fight

• The Texians faced no opposition initially

• The Texians were victorious and captured the town

• The Texians were immediately defeated

What led to the Texians' surrender during the Battle of Mier?

• They were offered a peace treaty

• They were betrayed by their allies

• They received orders to retreat

• They were outnumbered and ran out of supplies

How was it decided which prisoners would be executed after the Mier Expedition?

• By drawing lots with beans

• By a vote among the prisoners

• By the Mexican soldiers' choice

• By the Texian leaders' decision

What was the significance of the black bean in the lottery system?

• It signified survival

• It signified immediate execution

• It was a token of peace

• It was a symbol of leadership

What was Ewan Cameron's fate despite drawing a white bean?

• He was promoted to a higher rank

• He was released immediately

• He was executed by Santa Anna's orders

• He was sent back to Texas

What did Ewan Cameron declare before his execution?

• He refused a blindfold and faced death bravely

• He asked for a final meal

• He declared his loyalty to Mexico

• He begged for mercy

What happened to the remaining prisoners after the Black Bean Episode?

• They were sent to work camps

• They were exchanged and returned to Texas

• They were given Mexican citizenship

• They were executed

What was the ultimate outcome of the Mier Expedition for the Texians?

• They successfully repelled Mexican forces

• They gained new territories

• They formed an alliance with Mexico

• They suffered heavy losses and many were imprisoned