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Deemed the gateway to the heart of Mexico during the Mexican War, was besieged by General Scott with 12,000 men, March 23-29, 1847. General Morales commanded the town with 4390 men. Scott found no difficulty in landing his soldiers from the island of Lobos, his rendezvous, and in placing his batteries. The town was poorly fortified and Scott's bombardment effected great ruin. On March 25 Morales held a council of war. He was advised to surrender, but refused to do so, and resigned his command to General Jose Juan Landero. This general surrendered March 29. The Mexican officers were allowed to retain their arms and effects and the soldiers were permitted to retire to their homes. Scott then took possession.