Texas

Texas
Name	Texas
Nickname	The Lone Star State
Motto	Friendship
Capital	Austin
Largest city	Houston
Admission date	December 29, 1845 (28th)
Governor	Greg Abbott
Lieutenant governor	Dan Patrick
Legislature	Texas Legislature
Senators	John Cornyn (R), Ted Cruz (R)
Population rank	2nd
Area rank	2nd

Texas. A state located in the South Central region of the United States, it is the second-largest U.S. state by both area and population. Bordered by Louisiana to the east, Arkansas to the northeast, Oklahoma to the north, New Mexico to the west, and the Mexican states of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas to the southwest, its diverse geography ranges from coastal swamps to arid deserts. Its history as an independent nation, vast economic resources, and distinctive cultural identity have cemented its prominent role in American affairs.

History

The region was inhabited for millennia by numerous Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Comanche, and Apache. Spanish explorers, such as Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, first claimed the area for New Spain in the 16th century, establishing missions like the Alamo in San Antonio. After the Mexican War of Independence, it became part of Mexico, but Anglo-American settlement led to the Texas Revolution and the establishment of the Republic of Texas in 1836, following decisive battles at the Alamo and San Jacinto. Annexed by the United States in 1845, its admission precipitated the Mexican–American War. The state seceded during the American Civil War, rejoining the Union after Reconstruction. The 20th century was defined by economic transformations, most notably the Spindletop oil discovery near Beaumont in 1901, which ushered in a massive energy boom.

Geography

Encompassing 268,596 square miles, its terrain is highly varied. The Gulf Coastal Plain along the southeast features bays like Galveston Bay and barrier islands such as Padre Island. Moving inland, the land rises into the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country and the Edwards Plateau. The vast Great Plains extend across the Llano Estacado in the Panhandle, while the Trans-Pecos region in the far west contains part of the Chihuahuan Desert and mountain ranges like the Guadalupe Mountains, home to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Major river systems include the Rio Grande, forming the southern border, the Red River to the north, and the Brazos River. The climate ranges from humid subtropical in the east to arid in the west.

Demographics

With a population exceeding 30 million, it is one of the nation's most diverse and fastest-growing states. Major metropolitan areas include Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin. The state has a significant Hispanic population, with deep historical roots, alongside large African American, Asian, and growing immigrant communities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, several of its counties, such as Harris County and Dallas County, are among the most populous in the country. This demographic shift has profound implications for its culture, economy, and political landscape.

Economy

It possesses one of the world's largest economies, driven by a multitude of industries. Historically dominated by oil and natural gas, with major firms like ExxonMobil headquartered in Irving, the energy sector remains a cornerstone. Other leading sectors include aerospace and defense contracting, centered in Fort Worth with companies like Lockheed Martin, advanced manufacturing, and technology, with a major hub in Austin often called "Silicon Hills." It is a national leader in wind power generation. Agriculture also remains vital, with the state leading in the production of cattle, cotton, and hay. Major ports, such as the Port of Houston, facilitate extensive international trade.

Culture

Its cultural identity is a unique blend of Southern, Southwestern, and Tex-Mex influences, heavily shaped by its history as a republic. Iconic symbols include rodeo, country music, and Texas barbecue. The state's musical heritage is vast, encompassing legends like Willie Nelson and Beyoncé, and genres from Western swing to Tejano music. The University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University sustain a fierce collegiate rivalry. Cultural institutions are numerous, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Fort Worth Stockyards, and the annual State Fair of Texas in Dallas. The phrase "Remember the Alamo" endures as a powerful cultural motto.

Government and politics

It operates under the Texas Constitution and has a plural executive branch, with elected officials including the Governor and Lieutenant Governor wielding significant power. The bicameral Texas Legislature consists of the Texas Senate and the Texas House of Representatives. The state's judiciary is headed by the Texas Supreme Court and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. Politically, it has been dominated by the Republican Party since the late 20th century, with recent competitive shifts in urban areas. The state has a major impact on national politics, as seen in events like the Assassination of John F. Kennedy in Dallas and the tenure of President Lyndon B. Johnson.

Category:Texas Category:States of the United States Category:1845 establishments in the United States