Republic of Texas
The Republic of Texas existed from 1836 to 1845.
It was officially declared independent from Mexico on March 2, 1836, after the Texas Revolution.
It functioned as an independent country with its own president, military, currency, and foreign policy.
It was annexed by the United States on December 29, 1845, becoming the 28th U.S. state.
So, the Republic of Texas was an independent nation for just under 10 years.
Texas Cowboys: Icons of the American West
When people picture the American West, Texas cowboys often come to mind. With their wide-brimmed hats, worn leather boots, and steady confidence, Texas cowboys represent grit, independence, and a deep connection to the land. More than just symbols, they played a real and important role in shaping Texas history, culture, and identity.
The cowboy tradition in Texas began in the 1800s, after the Civil War, during the rise of the cattle industry. Texas had vast open ranges and a booming demand for beef, especially in northern states. Cattle drives became a huge part of the economy. Cowboys were the ones who made these long, difficult journeys possible. Riding for weeks across rough terrain, they moved herds from Texas to railheads in Kansas, often facing bad weather, river crossings, stampedes, and threats from outlaws. It was dangerous work—but essential.
Contrary to the Hollywood image, Texas cowboys came from many backgrounds. Some were white, but many were Black, Mexican, or Native American. In fact, the cowboy lifestyle has deep roots in Mexican vaquero traditions. The tools, skills, and terms used by cowboys—like lasso, rodeo, and chaps—often come from Spanish. Over time, these influences blended into a uniquely Texan way of life.
Cowboys weren’t just workers—they became legends. Songs, stories, and later films turned them into heroic figures: tough, quiet, self-reliant. They stood for freedom and frontier life. Even today, the cowboy remains a powerful symbol in Texas. Rodeos are held across the state year-round, celebrating the skills of bronco riding, roping, and barrel racing. Ranching still thrives in rural parts of Texas, and some families have passed down cowboy traditions for generations.
But cowboy culture isn't stuck in the past. Modern cowboys use GPS, drones, and modern equipment, but the values of hard work, loyalty, and respect for the land remain. Many also speak out about land conservation and animal care. Cowboys today often combine tradition with new knowledge, showing how old ways can adapt to modern times.
Beyond ranches, the cowboy image shows up in Texas fashion, music, and even politics. Cowboy boots are worn in offices and on stages. Country artists sing about life on the range. Politicians sometimes lean into the cowboy persona to project strength and independence. Whether authentic or symbolic, the cowboy figure is still tied closely to what it means to be Texan.
In short, Texas cowboys are more than just a stereotype—they're a living part of the state's story. From their role in shaping the cattle industry to their lasting impact on culture and identity, cowboys helped define what Texas stands for: resilience, pride, and a fiercely independent spirit. And even as times change, the cowboy’s legacy continues to ride strong across the Lone Star State.