We view ourselves on the eve of battle. We are nerved for the contest, and must conquer or perish. It is vain to look for present aid; none is at hand. We must now act or abandon all hope! . . . Be men, be free men, that your children may bless their father's name. Why did Sam Houston say these words BEFORE the Battle of San Jacinto?

He decided to speak those words before the battle to cause encouragement and to affirm that the battle was a responsibility of all those men to themselves and their children.

Explanation:

Sam Houston's words were said to encourage and encourage men before the battle started. He knew that the battle would be difficult and that many would not survive and that is why they were afraid of what could happen. Houston then said that the fight, regardless of the outcome, was the responsibility of men to themselves and their families, especially their children, who would see them as heroes.