Sam Houston was a famous Texas hero born in 1793 in Virginia. He lived with the Cherokee Indians for three years and later fought in the War of 1812. In 1836, Houston helped write the Texas Constitution and led Texian forces to victory over Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto, winning independence for Texas. He later served as Governor of Texas. Known as the "Father of Texas", Houston played a pivotal role in the history of the state.