State Abbreviation: TX

Capital: Austin

Name Origin: It’s said that the Caddo tribe greeted Spanish settlers by saying Tay-yas, which means “friends”—and sounds like “Texas.”

Nickname: The Lone Star State

Statehood: December 29, 1845 (28th State)

State Motto: “Friendship”

Texas boasts a rich and diverse history, spanning thousands of years. Evidence of human habitation in the region dates back over eleven thousand years. The area was inhabited by various indigenous cultures, including the Puebloan, Mississippian, and Mesoamerican peoples. By the time of European colonization, Texas was home to six major culture groups, such as the Comanche, Atakapa, Coahuiltecan, Puebloan, Apachean, and Caddoan peoples.

The name "Texas" originated from the Hasinai word for "allies," reflecting the Spanish designation for their alliance with the Hasinai tribe as "tejas." Spanish explorers like Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca and Francisco Vásquez de Coronado first explored the region in the 16th century. However, it wasn't until the 17th century that the French established a short-lived colony at Matagorda Bay, prompting Spanish interest in the area.

Over the next century and a half, the Spanish established numerous missions and towns throughout Texas, navigating complex alliances and rivalries with various Native American nations. Texas served as a buffer zone between competing French and Spanish colonial territories and became a disputed area following the Louisiana Purchase.

In 1821, Texas became a part of Mexico after the country gained independence from Spain. To encourage settlement and counter Comanche raids, Mexico implemented a land grant program that attracted American immigrants led by Stephen F. Austin. Tensions arose between the American settlers and the Mexican government, particularly regarding the issue of slavery. In 1836, Texas declared independence from Mexico, leading to the establishment of the independent Republic of Texas after the famous battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto.

Texas joined the United States as a state in 1845, but border disputes sparked the Mexican-American War from 1846 to 1848. During the Civil War, Texas sided with the Confederacy, but pockets of pro-Union sentiment existed within the state. After the war, Texas experienced economic transformation with the discovery of oil, leading to a boom in the oil and shipping industries. The state also witnessed military expansion during World War II and welcomed Mexican agricultural workers through the Bracero Program.

Today, Texas is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors exploring its diverse attractions. From the Gulf Coast resort area to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, the historic Alamo, the state capital in Austin, and the stunning natural landscapes of Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas offers a wealth of experiences for visitors to enjoy and appreciate.

• Juneteenth, the federal holiday that celebrates freedom for enslaved people, started in Texas.
  
• Frontiersman and politician Davy Crockett moved to Texas around 1835 and died while fighting at the Alamo. Two U.S. presidents were born in Texas: Dwight D. Eisenhower and Lyndon B. Johnson. Houston’s Johnson Space Center, also known as Mission Control, carries President Johnson’s name.
  
• Because it’s so close to Mexico, Texans have developed a cuisine that’s a mix of Mexican food and American cooking called Tex-Mex.
  
• Want to feel like a cowboy? Visit one of Texas’s thousands of ranches and rodeos.
  
• Six flags have flown over Texas: British, French, Mexican, Texan, United States, and Confederate. That’s how Six Flags amusement park got its name!

1. Explore the Cultural Diversity of Houston: Visit the vibrant city of Houston, known for its diverse communities and rich cultural offerings. Explore the Museum District, which houses world-class institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Enjoy authentic international cuisine in the city's diverse neighborhoods and experience the lively arts and music scene.
2. Discover the Historic San Antonio River Walk: Take a stroll along the famous San Antonio River Walk, a picturesque waterway lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Explore the historic missions, including the iconic Alamo, and learn about the city's role in Texas history. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Tex-Mex cuisine along the way.
3. Experience the Natural Wonders of Big Bend National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Big Bend National Park. Hike through scenic trails, marvel at towering canyons, and take in stunning views of the Rio Grande. Camp under the starry skies, birdwatch in the diverse ecosystems, and witness the vibrant desert flora and fauna.
4. Enjoy the Beaches of South Padre Island: Head to South Padre Island, located on the Gulf Coast, for a sun-soaked beach getaway. Relax on the pristine sandy shores, go fishing or boating in the Gulf of Mexico, or indulge in water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Don't miss the opportunity to observe sea turtles at the Sea Turtle Inc. conservation center.
5. Immerse Yourself in the Live Music Scene of Austin: Experience the vibrant live music scene in the capital city of Austin. Explore the famous Sixth Street entertainment district, where you can enjoy live performances ranging from country and blues to rock and indie. Visit iconic music venues like the Continental Club and catch a show at the legendary Austin City Limits Live.