Final answer:
Slavery played a significant role in the story of the Alamo, with some defenders being slaveholders and several slaves of the Texans being inside the mission. Santa Anna spared the slaves in an attempt to gain support, but the Texans' disregard for slavery laws was a source of concern for the Mexican government.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of slavery in the story of the Alamo is significant but often overlooked. Some of the defenders at the Alamo were slaveholders, and several slaves of the Texans were inside the mission. Santa Anna spared them, hoping to convince other slaves to support the Mexicans in the rebellion. However, the Texans' refusal to abide by slavery laws was a source of irritation and concern for the Mexican government. The issue of slavery was part of the broader context of the Texas Revolution and the fight for independence from Mexico.