Texas is a state located in the southern region of the United States and is the second largest state in terms of both area and population. With a rich and diverse history, Texas has a unique place in the American story.

The area now known as Texas has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Some of the first European explorers to reach Texas were Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, who established missions and presidios throughout the region.

In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain and Texas became part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. However, by the late 1820s, American settlers had begun to arrive in Texas, drawn by the promise of cheap land and new opportunities. Tensions between the American settlers and the Mexican government grew, leading to the Texas Revolution in 1836. After a series of battles, the Texans declared their independence and established the Republic of Texas after defeating the Mexican Army at San Jacinto.

The Republic of Texas existed as an independent nation for nine years, until it was annexed by the United States in 1845. Texas' admission to the Union as a state sparked the Mexican-American War, as Mexico disputed the American claim to the territory.

Texas became a state just in time to join the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War, but was occupied by Union forces for much of the conflict. After the war, Texas underwent a period of Reconstruction and struggled with the issues of the day, including the growth of the cattle industry, the development of the oil industry, and the rise of the Ku Klux Klan.

In the 20th century, Texas experienced tremendous growth and change. The state became a hub for the oil and gas industry, and cities like Houston and Dallas became major economic centers. Texas also became a leader in the technology sector, with the development of companies like Dell and Texas Instruments.

Today, Texas is one of the most populous and economically important states in the country, with a rich and diverse culture that reflects its unique history. From the Native American cultures that first inhabited the region, to the Spanish conquistadors, the settlers of the Republic of Texas, and the oil barons of the 20th century, Texas has a long and fascinating story to tell.

Discussion Questions

1. Why did American settlers move to Texas in the 1820s?
2. What was the outcome of the Texas Revolution?
3. How did Texas change after joining the United States?
4. What industries helped Texas grow in the 20th century?

Glossary

• Conquistador – A Spanish explorer and soldier in the 1500s who came to the Americas.
• Mission – A religious settlement set up by Spanish colonists to convert Native Americans.
• Annex – To add a territory to a country.
• Republic – A country where people vote for their leaders.
• Reconstruction – The period after the Civil War when the Southern states were rebuilt and brought back into the Union.