A glimpse of Texas history

On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate its semi-quincentennial— 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our nation in 1776.

Almost seventy years before Texas entered the Union as the 28^th state on December 29, 1845, our people and lands were playing a meaningful role in the fight for American independence.

During the American Revolution, Spain controlled a vast territory west of the Mississippi River, including what is now Texas. When Texans joined the war against England in 1779, soldiers, rancheros, vaqueros, mission Indians, and settlers helped drive 10,000 head of Texas cattle east to feed the Revolutionary Army.

Texans contributed financially to the war effort as well, raising over 1,600 pesos (~$61k in today’s dollars) and sending prayers of victory, underscoring the enduring connection between Texans and the broader story of American Independence.

Fun Facts:

• On February 19, 1846, Anson Jones, the last president of the Republic of Texas, lowered the Texas flag and the new Stars and Stripes were raised over Texas.
• The Texas Facilities Commission flies over 50 flags at state facilities every day.
• The text to the original 1876 Texas Constitution is etched on the glass wall of the lobby of the Barbara Jordan Building, 1601 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas

Texas 2026

Across the Lone Star State, events that encourage celebration, reflection, and commemoration are being held to showcase our bold Texan spirit and role in America’s unfolding story.

Get Involved:

• Texas America250 Exhibit, on view from now until 12/31 at the Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building, or learn more online at www.tsl.texas.gov/texasamerica250exhibit
• The Original 1876 Texas Constitution, on display from now through 7/31 at the Texas State Library and Archives Commission Reference Reading Room, 1201 Brazos St., Austin, TX. This landmark document isn’t just a set of lofty principles; its defining feature is its extensive detail of state law codes consisting of 17 articles covering everything from voting rights and education to railroads and taxes.
• My Flag, My Story: A National Virtual Show-and-Tell Experience, on 7/1 – 7/5 participate by submitting photographs and brief narratives to help create a living digital archive that reflects the diverse ways Texans and Americans express service, sacrifice, heritage, and civic pride.

Learn more about Texas and national celebrations at Texas America 250 and America 250.