Texas, often pronounced as /ˈtɛksəs/ or locally /ˈtɛksɪz/, and known in Spanish as Texas or Tejas, is a prominent state located in the South Central region of the United States. This vast area represents a cultural and geographical crossroads, blending influences from both the American South and Southwest. Ranking as the second-largest U.S. state by both total area and population, Texas encompasses an impressive 268,596 square miles (approximately 695,662 square kilometers), placing it just behind Alaska in landmass. Furthermore, with a population exceeding 29.1 million residents as recorded in 2020, it is the second most populous state in the nation, surpassed only by California.

Strategically positioned, Texas shares extensive borders with several U.S. states: Louisiana to the east, Arkansas to the northeast, Oklahoma to the north, and New Mexico to the west. Its unique southern and southwestern frontier connects directly with four Mexican states—Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas—fostering significant cross-border trade and cultural exchange. To its southeast, Texas boasts a substantial coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, which plays a vital role in its economy through ports, shipping, and energy production.

Major Urban Centers and the "Lone Star State" Legacy

Texas is home to several of the largest and most dynamic cities in the United States, driving much of its economic and cultural landscape. Houston stands as the most populous city in Texas and ranks as the fourth-largest city nationally, serving as a global hub for energy, aeronautics, and healthcare. San Antonio, rich in history and culture, is the state's second most populous city and the seventh-largest in the U.S., famous for sites like The Alamo and its vibrant Riverwalk.

Beyond individual cities, Texas features two of the country's largest metropolitan areas. The Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex is the fourth-largest metropolitan statistical area in the United States, a powerhouse for business, logistics, and technology. Following closely, Greater Houston is the fifth-largest, solidifying Texas's position as a national economic leader. Other significant urban centers include Austin, the state capital, which is the second most populous state capital in the U.S. and a burgeoning center for technology and live music, often referred to as "Silicon Hills." El Paso, located on the western tip of Texas, serves as a crucial international trade point with Mexico.

The enduring moniker for Texas is the "Lone Star State." This nickname originates from its remarkable history as an independent republic before joining the Union, symbolizing its hard-won independence from Mexico. The single star, prominently featured on the Texas state flag and the Texas state seal, serves as a powerful reminder of this unique past and the spirit of determination. Interestingly, the very name "Texas" is derived from the Caddo word táyshaʼ, which means 'friends' or 'allies', reflecting the friendly greetings early Spanish explorers received from indigenous peoples.

Diverse Landscapes and Geographical Regions

Given its immense size and distinctive geological features, notably the Balcones Fault, Texas exhibits an astonishing array of landscapes that encompass characteristics of both the U.S. Southern and Southwestern regions. While popular perception often associates Texas primarily with vast southwestern deserts, less than ten percent of its expansive land area is actually desert. In reality, the majority of the state's population centers thrive in areas historically characterized by prairies, grasslands, forests, and the fertile coastal plains.

A journey across Texas from east to west reveals a dramatic topographical transition. One can begin in the lush, humid coastal swamps and dense piney woods of East Texas, part of the greater Pine Belt that stretches across the South. Moving westward, the terrain gradually shifts to rolling plains and rugged hills, indicative of the Central Texas Hill Country and the High Plains. Finally, the extreme western reaches of the state give way to arid deserts and towering mountains, most notably within the breathtaking Big Bend region, showcasing stark geological contrasts.

A Rich Historical Tapestry: The "Six Flags Over Texas"

The phrase "six flags over Texas" encapsulates the complex and multifaceted history of the territory, referring to the six distinct nations or entities that have, at various times, claimed sovereignty over this land. This historical progression shaped Texas into the unique state it is today:

• Spain (1519-1685, 1690-1821): As the first European power to claim and control the vast area, Spain left an indelible mark on Texas's culture, architecture, and language, establishing missions and presidios.
• France (1685-1690): A short-lived French colony, Fort Saint Louis, established by Robert Cavelier de La Salle, briefly asserted French claims, challenging Spanish dominance.
• Mexico (1821-1836): Following its independence from Spain, Mexico controlled the territory, inviting Anglo-American settlers, which eventually led to tensions over governance and slavery.
• Republic of Texas (1836-1845): After a decisive struggle for independence, culminating in the Battle of San Jacinto, Texas emerged as a sovereign nation, the Republic of Texas, an independent entity for nearly a decade.
• United States of America (1845-1861, 1865-Present): In 1845, Texas joined the Union as the 28th state. This annexation, a significant event in U.S. expansionism, directly contributed to the outbreak of the Mexican–American War in 1846, as border disputes escalated.
• Confederate States of America (1861-1865): As a slave state with strong agricultural interests tied to slave labor, Texas declared its secession from the U U.S. in early 1861 and officially joined the Confederate States of America on March 2 of the same year. Following the conclusion of the Civil War and the arduous period of Reconstruction, which included the restoration of its representation in the federal government, Texas entered a prolonged phase of economic stagnation, awaiting a new catalyst for growth.

Economic Evolution: From Ranches to High-Tech

Prior to World War II, the Texas economy was predominantly shaped by four major industries that leveraged the state's natural resources and vast lands: cattle and bison, cotton, timber, and petroleum. The cattle industry, in particular, was a monumental economic driver both before and after the U.S. Civil War. Texas came to dominate cattle ranching, giving rise to the iconic image of the American cowboy, deeply rooted in the vaquero traditions of its Spanish and Mexican heritage. By the later 19th century, as the profitability of the cattle industry saw some decline, cotton cultivation and lumber production, particularly from the extensive forests of East Texas, grew to become significant economic sectors.

However, it was the monumental discovery of major petroleum deposits, most famously at Spindletop in 1901, that truly ignited an unprecedented economic boom. This "black gold" fundamentally transformed the state's economy, becoming the primary driving force throughout much of the 20th century. Leveraging its vast energy resources, Texas has since developed a highly diversified economy, integrating a robust high-tech industry from the mid-20th century onwards. As of 2015, Texas proudly hosted the second-highest number of Fortune 500 company headquarters in the United States, with 54 major corporations choosing Texas as their base, underscoring its pivotal role in the national economy.

Today, Texas leads the nation in numerous industries, showcasing its economic breadth and dynamism. Key sectors include a thriving tourism industry, extensive agriculture (ranging from livestock to various crops), a world-leading petrochemical industry concentrated along the Gulf Coast, and a massive energy sector that now encompasses not only traditional oil and gas but also a rapidly expanding renewable energy portfolio, particularly wind and solar power. Furthermore, Texas is a significant player in computers and electronics, aerospace (home to NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston), and biomedical sciences. Its formidable economic output is highlighted by the fact that Texas has led the U.S. in state export revenue every year since 2002 and boasts the second-highest gross state product nationally. Remarkably, if Texas were an independent sovereign state, its economy would rank as the 10th-largest in the world, a testament to its global economic influence.

The Transformative Spindletop Discovery

Spindletop, an unassuming hill located in the southern portion of Beaumont, Texas, forever changed not only Texas but also the global energy landscape. This geological formation, specifically a salt dome derived from the Jurassic period's Louann Salt evaporite layer, held immense subterranean riches. On January 10, 1901, the Lucas Gusher at Spindletop struck oil, initiating what would become known as the Texas oil boom. The sheer power of the gusher was astonishing, blowing for nine continuous days at an estimated rate of 100,000 barrels (approximately 16,000 cubic meters) of oil per day.

The Spindletop discovery's immediate impact was profound. It directly led to the formation of major oil companies, including Gulf Oil and Texaco (both now part of Chevron Corporation), established specifically to develop the enormous production potential of the field. More significantly, Spindletop marked the true beginning of the United States' entry into the modern oil age. Prior to this colossal find, oil was primarily used for limited purposes such as lighting (kerosene) and as a lubricant. However, the unprecedented quantity of crude oil unleashed by Spindletop made burning petroleum as a readily available and economically feasible fuel for mass consumption a reality. This sudden abundance ignited a frenzy of oil exploration and the widespread economic development it generated across the state, giving birth to the legendary "Texas oil boom." The immense scale of production that followed in Texas, fueled by Spindletop and subsequent discoveries, soon propelled the United States to become the world's leading oil producer, dramatically reshaping industrial development, transportation, and global geopolitics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas

What is the origin of the name "Texas"?

The name "Texas" originates from the Caddo word táyshaʼ, which translates to 'friends' or 'allies', a term used by indigenous Caddo people when greeting early Spanish explorers.

Why is Texas known as the "Lone Star State"?

Texas earned its nickname, the "Lone Star State," due to its period as an independent nation, the Republic of Texas, from 1836 to 1845. The single star on its state flag and seal symbolizes this unique history and its struggle for independence from Mexico.

How large is Texas in terms of area and population?

Texas is the second-largest U.S. state by both area, covering 268,596 square miles (695,662 km2) after Alaska, and by population, with over 29.1 million residents in 2020, second only to California.

What are the major cities in Texas?

The major cities in Texas include Houston (the most populous), San Antonio (second most populous), Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin (the state capital), and El Paso. The Dallas–Fort Worth and Greater Houston areas are among the largest metropolitan statistical areas in the U.S.

What does "Six Flags Over Texas" refer to?

"Six Flags Over Texas" refers to the six different nations or governmental entities that have ruled over the territory of Texas throughout its history: Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the United States of America, and the Confederate States of America.

How did the Spindletop oil discovery impact Texas and the U.S.?

The Spindletop oil discovery in 1901 profoundly impacted Texas by initiating a massive economic boom and transforming it into a global energy powerhouse. For the U.S., it ushered in the modern oil age, making petroleum economically viable for mass consumption and leading the U.S. to become the world's leading oil producer, fueling industrial expansion and transportation.

What are Texas's primary industries today?

Today, Texas boasts a highly diversified economy with leading industries including energy (oil, gas, and renewables), petrochemicals, technology and electronics, aerospace, biomedical sciences, agriculture, and tourism. It consistently leads the U.S. in state export revenue and has the second-highest gross state product.