Hexagonal close packed (hcp) crystal structures, such as magnesium and titanium, provide formidable strength in relation to density. Current interests in reducing CO2 emissions, hold magnesium as a contender to lightweight passenger vehicles. Although significant decreases in mass could be achieved through magnesium, poor formability and energy absorption capacity limit the possibility for cost-effective production. This Master’s thesis aims to observe the microstructure and micro texture evolution induced by twinning using interrupted electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) characterization in order to determine potential mechanisms causing early failure of magnesium alloys. This study revealed {10-11} contraction twins at stress levels contrary to the basic hypothesis of the Schmid effect revealing the importance of non-Schmid effects in damage. Furthermore, it was observed that crack nucleation occurs in magnesium alloys, due mainly to interaction between twins and microstructure defects and form inside contraction twins, causing cleavage-like terraces in the fracture surface.