The event that led to the establishment of the Republic of Texas was the Texas Revolution, which occurred from 1835 to 1836. Texans revolted against Mexican rule due to dissatisfaction with centralization policies and the lack of autonomy. The pivotal battle of San Jacinto in April 1836, where Texian forces led by Sam Houston defeated Santa Anna's army, resulted in the capture of the Mexican president and solidified Texas's claim for independence. Following this victory, the Republic of Texas was declared, eventually seeking annexation by the United States, significantly impacting north-south relations and leading to the Mexican-American War.