In October of 1835, the first battle of the Texas Revolution took place between Texian Settlers and the Mexican Army near the town of Gonzalez Texas. Several years before the battle, the Mexican government had given a cannon to the residents of Gonzalez to help in protecting themselves from Comanche raids. Years passed and the political relationship between the Texian settlers and the Mexican government deteriorated resulting in the Mexican government requesting that the cannon be returned. The Texians response was “Come and Take it”. Eventually, 100 dragoons from the Mexican Army were dispatched to retrieve the cannon from the residents of Gonzalez. However, in true Patriot fashion, the settlers would not comply and did not surrender their weapon. In a symbolic act of defiance, during the battle the Texians flew a handmade flag depicting an image of the cannon, a black star, and the slogan “Come and Take It”.
The slogan “Come and Take it” dates back much further than the Texas Revolution. In fact, the first usage of this slogan occurred all the way back in 480 B.C on the eve of the Battle of Thermopylae. Prior to the battle, Xerxes I and the Persian Army demanded the Spartans turn in their weapons as part of an unconditional surrender. However, in a final act of defiance, King Leonidas and the Spartans replied to Xerxes with the phrase “Molon Labe” which translates to “Come and Take Them”
The slogan was also used during the American Revolution. In November of 1778 the British Army attempted to siege Fort Morris Georgia which was led by Colonel John McIntosh. The British surrounded the Fort and demanded the Americans surrender. Colonel McIntosh responded to the demand in writing: "As to surrendering the fort, receive this laconic reply: COME AND TAKE IT!".
Today, the Gonzalez Flag along with the slogans “Come and Take It” and “Molon Labe” are symbols of defiance and opposition to tyranny and government overreach. They are an important part of our nation’s heritage and are a great reflection of the American Spirit.