A Sharp Overview
Texas has a long, complex history marked by conflict, cultural shifts, and economic change. What began as a land inhabited by indigenous peoples eventually became a focal point of European colonization, a battlefield for independence, and a powerful player in the American story.
Who decided Republic of Texas should join United States back in 1845 ?
The decision for Texas to join the United States in 1845 was made by both the government of the Republic of Texas and the U.S. government.
On the Texas side:
President Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas, played a key role. But the movement toward annexation had been building for years, starting under previous leaders like Sam Houston, the first president of the Republic. Many Texans supported joining the U.S. because they believed it would bring security, economic benefits, and stability.
In July 1845, a Texas convention of elected delegates voted overwhelmingly in favor of annexation.
On the U.S. side:
President John Tyler pushed for Texas to join the Union, and in March 1845, just before leaving office, he signed a joint resolution of Congress offering annexation. His successor, James K. Polk, strongly supported expansion (Manifest Destiny) and helped finalize the process.
Texas officially became the 28th state on December 29, 1845.
Early Inhabitants
Before Europeans arrived, Texas was home to many Native American groups. The Caddo in East Texas built complex societies based on agriculture. The Comanche and Apache roamed the plains as fierce warriors and skilled horsemen. These tribes adapted to diverse environments, from coastal plains to desert mountains.
Spanish Colonization
In 1519, Spanish explorer Alonso Álvarez de Piñeda mapped the Texas coastline, marking the first European contact. Spain claimed Texas, but actual settlement was slow. Missions and presidios (military forts) were established to convert Native Americans and secure Spain's hold. However, hostile tribes, vast distances, and limited resources made colonization difficult.
Mexican Independence and Anglo Settlement
In 1821, Mexico won independence from Spain. The new government struggled to control distant Texas, so it invited Anglo settlers under "empresario" contracts. Stephen F. Austin led the first significant group, establishing colonies that grew quickly. Tensions rose between Anglo settlers and Mexican authorities over issues like slavery, which Mexico had outlawed, and local autonomy.
Texas Revolution
By 1835, conflict was inevitable. Texians (Anglo settlers in Texas) rebelled against Mexican rule. The revolution included key battles like the Siege of Bexar and the infamous fall of the Alamo, where a small group of defenders, including Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie, were killed. "Remember the Alamo" became a rallying cry. The revolution ended in 1836 when Texian forces, led by Sam Houston, defeated General Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. Texas declared itself an independent republic.
The Republic of Texas
From 1836 to 1845, Texas existed as an independent nation. It faced serious problems: debt, conflicts with Native Americans, and threats from Mexico, which refused to recognize Texan independence. Many Texans, including Sam Houston, sought annexation by the United States. Others worried that annexation would mean war with Mexico.
Annexation and the Mexican-American War
In 1845, Texas joined the United States, becoming the 28th state. Almost immediately, tensions with Mexico exploded into the Mexican-American War. The U.S. victory secured Texas's position and expanded American territory all the way to the Pacific.
Civil War and Reconstruction
Texas seceded from the Union in 1861 and joined the Confederacy. The state was spared much physical destruction but suffered economically. After the Confederacy's defeat, Texas underwent Reconstruction. Freedmen (formerly enslaved people) sought to build new lives, while many white Texans resisted federal control and racial equality.
Economic Shifts: Cattle, Cotton, and Oil
In the late 19th century, Texas's economy was driven by cattle and cotton. Cowboys and cattle drives became symbols of Texan culture. Railroads expanded, linking Texas to national markets. Then, in 1901, the discovery of oil at Spindletop near Beaumont triggered a boom that transformed the state. Oil money poured into cities, fueling industry and urbanization.
20th Century: Growth and Change
During the 20th century, Texas shifted from a rural to an urban society. Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio grew rapidly. Texas played key roles in World War II, serving as a training ground for soldiers and a center for oil production. After the war, aerospace, technology, and medical industries diversified the economy.
Meanwhile, the civil rights movement challenged segregation and discrimination. African American and Latino Texans fought for political representation, better education, and economic opportunities. Leaders like Barbara Jordan and organizations like the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) made lasting impacts.
Modern Texas
Today, Texas is a powerhouse. It has the second-largest population and economy in the U.S. Energy, technology, agriculture, and entertainment all thrive here. Politically, Texas remains influential, often setting national trends.
Texas's identity is complex: a mix of fierce independence, multiculturalism, conservatism, and innovation. Its history — full of conflict, growth, and reinvention — continues to shape not just the state but the entire country.