15 Interesting Facts About Texas

Introduction:

Texas is a sprawling state of the United States of America with a history and culture all its own. At over 267,338 square miles, it is the second largest state in the country, and the population of 28 million people is the second highest in the nation. With a rich history, diverse population, and varying climates it is no wonder Texas is one of the most popular states in America. Here are 15 interesting facts about the state of Texas.

Fact 1: Texas is the only state to enter the United States by treaty rather than territorial annexation.

In 1845, Texas entered the United States in exchange for the federal government assuming all outstanding debt of the Republic of Texas. The state of Texas was formed by the Republic of Texas to become part of the United States.

Fact 2: The Texas flag is the only state flag to feature one other than a state seal or coat of arms.

The Texas flag is the only state flag in the United States of America that has no representation of its own by the flag’s image. The lone star that represents Texas was adopted back in 1836 and has been a part of the state’s flag designs ever since.

Fact 3: The Alamo Mission in San Antonio is the most visited tourist site in Texas.

The Alamo is a former Roman Catholic mission and fortress in San Antonio, Texas, that was the site of a key battle between the Texan revolutionaries and the Mexican forces that once held the land. The Alamo’s place in the history of the state of Texas makes it a prime tourist site.

Fact 4: In 1850, Texas was the largest cotton producing state in the United States.

With the influx of cotton-seeking farmers in the mid-19th century, Texas quickly became the largest cotton-producing state in the US. In 1850, Texas was the leading producer of cotton, producing more than 16 million-500-pound bales of cotton fibers. That’s double the amount of cotton that many other states produced!

Fact 5: Texas has the most counties in the United States.

Texas is a large state with 254 counties. This is more than any other state in the United States. With that many counties, it’s no surprise that Texas is the second most populous state in the entire country.

Fact 6: The Rio Grande River is the border between Texas and Mexico.

The Rio Grande River is the border between Texas and Mexico. It is 1,896 miles long, making it the fourth longest river system in the United States. The Rio Grande is of significance to both Texas and Mexico, since many of the state’s industries, like agriculture and energy, rely heavily on it.

Fact 7: Texas is the only state to have three cities with populations of over one million.

Texas is the only state in the United States to have three cities (Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas) with populations of over one million people. This is a testament to the economic power of the state, which has kept its main cities bustling with activity.

Fact 8: The Texas-Mexico border is the longest International Border in the United States.

The Texas-Mexico border is the longest international border the United States shares with any one country. The total length of the US and Mexico’s border is 1,951 miles. This lengthy border has been a source of contention in recent times but it’s also a source of shared business and cultural opportunities.

Fact 9: Texas is the only state to have held the flags of 6 different nations.

Texas has the unique distinction of having been under the flags of six different nations. These include Spain, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States of America, the United States, and the United Nations. Texas’s multi-cultural history has been an influential factor in the state’s identity today.

Fact 10: Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World.

Texas is known for its music scene, and Austin, the state capital, is particularly well-known for its music, hence the nickname “Live Music Capital of the World”. Austin is home to a variety of music festivals, including Austin City Limits, Fun Fun Fun Fest, and SXSW.

Fact 11: Over 20% of the world’s petroleum is produced in Texas.

Texas is a major player in the energy industry, and the state is a leader in petroleum production. In fact, Texas produces more than 20% of the world’s crude oil. This is an impressive feat for a state that accounts for only 7% of the United States’ total land mass.

Fact 12: Houston is the most diverse large city in the United States.

Houston is the most diverse major city in the United States. Every major ethnic and religious group in the country can be found in Houston and the surrounding area. This diverse population reflects in the city’s culture, making it a vibrant and welcoming place to live.

Fact 13: The Texas Longhorn is the official state large mammal.

The Texas Longhorn is the official state large mammal of the state of Texas. This iconic breed has been around since the 1500s, and while they’re most closely associated with the state of Texas, they’re also found in other parts of the United States.

Fact 14: Texas has the most churches in the United States.

2020 estimates find that Texas is home to 39,500 churches. That’s more than any other state in the US! This religious diversity has helped shape the culture of the Lone Star State, and its influence can be seen even today.

Fact 15: Texas is the only state to have 3 large cities located within 150 miles of each other.

There are three cities in Texas, Austin, Dallas, and Houston, that are located within 150 miles of each other. This makes Texas the only state in the United States to have three large cities in such close proximity.

Conclusion

Texas is an incredibly interesting state with a long and storied history. From its culture and diversity to its economy and energy, Texas is one of the hottest spots in the United States. There’s no shortage of interesting facts about the Lone Star State, and the 15 listed here just scratch the surface.