During The Spanish Colonial Era (1689-1821).

"I am on a mission to spread Christianity to the new world, manage control over the region and teach the Natives the Spanish way of life."

Mexican Rule1821-1835

When Mexico gained independence from Spain, the population in much of what is today Texas was dominated by Native Americans. Feeling threatened by the native groups, and worried that the United States would try to take Texas, the Mexican government moved to enact policies to move more settlers into the area to help implement control over the region.

Texas responded to the election of Abraham Lincoln by joining the Confederacy in early 1861, a few weeks before the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter. Although only about one in four Texas families owned slaves, support for secession was strong, with about three quarters of voters supporting secession. Many Texas men immediately joined the war effort, traveling east to fight with other Confederate soldiers. Many others joined but stayed in Texas, with some defending the coastline, some guarding against possible Union attack, and others pushing into New Mexico Territory. A small number joined the Union army.

Civil War and Reconstruction1861-1870

Early Statehood1845-1861In December of 1845, Texas became the 28thstate of the United States of America. It was a change welcomed by many. As early as 1836, Texan voters had chosen overwhelmingly to support annexation. But opposition in the U.S. was strong, and the annexation of Texas came only after years of heavy debate.

Present

The only thing consistent in Texas is change. From the very beginning, Texas has been an evolving place and idea; a trend that continues even to modern times. The one exception to this rule is the ever-present “Texas Spirit” that continues to inspire a deep sense of pride and connection to this chunk of land we call the Lone Star State.

During The Spanish Colonial Era (1689-1821).

"I am on a mission to spread Christianity to the new world, manage control over the region and teach the Natives the Spanish way of life."

Mexican Rule1821-1835

When Mexico gained independence from Spain, the population in much of what is today Texas was dominated by Native Americans. Feeling threatened by the native groups, and worried that the United States would try to take Texas, the Mexican government moved to enact policies to move more settlers into the area to help implement control over the region.

Texas responded to the election of Abraham Lincoln by joining the Confederacy in early 1861, a few weeks before the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter. Although only about one in four Texas families owned slaves, support for secession was strong, with about three quarters of voters supporting secession. Many Texas men immediately joined the war effort, traveling east to fight with other Confederate soldiers. Many others joined but stayed in Texas, with some defending the coastline, some guarding against possible Union attack, and others pushing into New Mexico Territory. A small number joined the Union army.

Civil War and Reconstruction1861-1870

Early Statehood1845-1861In December of 1845, Texas became the 28thstate of the United States of America. It was a change welcomed by many. As early as 1836, Texan voters had chosen overwhelmingly to support annexation. But opposition in the U.S. was strong, and the annexation of Texas came only after years of heavy debate.

Present

The only thing consistent in Texas is change. From the very beginning, Texas has been an evolving place and idea; a trend that continues even to modern times. The one exception to this rule is the ever-present “Texas Spirit” that continues to inspire a deep sense of pride and connection to this chunk of land we call the Lone Star State.