Overview of Texas
As the 28th state and the second-largest state in the Union, Texas can be overwhelming in its grandeur and history. From its beginning, Texas has been known for its cowboys, oil rigs and pioneer spirit. No matter which region of Texas, visitors will find beautiful scenery and a vast array of adventures and historic landmarks. So, begin your new adventure in Texas by exploring the links to Texas history below.
Fun Facts About Texas
- The state capital is Austin.
- The state capitol is seven feet taller than the U.S. Capitol.
- Six Flags over Texas is named for the six countries that have occupied the land of Texas (Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the United States, and the Confederate States of America).
- Texas is home to around 7,000 lakes scattered throughout the state.
- The Texas State Fair is the largest state fair in the United States, attracting about 2.5 million visitors each year.
- The name “Texas” comes from a Caddo word that means “friends.”
- The 67-ft. tall statue of Sam Houston in Huntsville is the world’s tallest statue representing a real person.
- The state motto is one word: “Friendship.”
- Texas leads the nation in the production of oil, beef and cotton.
- No state has a greater variety of reptiles or flowers than Texas.
- Dr Pepper was invented in Texas in 1885.
State Symbols of Texas
- Flower: Bluebonnet
- Tree: Pecan Tree
- Bird: Northern Mockingbird
- Sport: Rodeo
- Pie: Pecan Pie
- Vegetable: Sweet Onion
