From the Annals of the Republic –  In 1842, a Mexican force of at least 500 soldiers under the command of Gen. Rafael Vasquez seized control of San Antonio.  The outnumbered Texans withdrew from the City without a fight when Vasquez demanded surrender.  Vasquez quickly raised the Mexican flag and declared that Mexican law was in effect.  It is unclear how Vasquez completely surprised the City, but the invasion was short-lived as Vasquez withdrew from the City on March 7 and returned to Mexico under some pursuit.  The incursion was one of many cross-border fights between Texas and Mexico throughout the life of the Republic.