During the Texas War of Independence, Texian (American) forces under Colonel James Fannin were captured by the Mexican army in the battle of Coleto. About 300 were sent as prisoners to the strategic Presidio La Bahia at Goliad, where they expected to eventually be released. However, General Santa Anna (best known for his capture of the Alamo), and now president of Mexico, ordered the prisoners to be executed. The American captives were taken outside on Palm Sunday, March 27, 1836, and shot. Survivors were clubbed or stabbed to death, and the bodies piled and burnt. Colonel Fannin was killed last, blindfolded and seated in a chair. A total of 342 men were killed and 28 were spared or escaped in what is known as the Goliad Massacre.