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The United States purchased 828,000 square miles of land from France. This expanded U.S. territory westward and sparked interest in the Texas region, though Spain still claimed it. -
After 11 years of revolution, Mexico won independence from Spain, and Texas became part of the new nation. This change led to an influx of U.S. settlers under Mexico’s colonization laws. -
Austin brought 300 families to Texas under a Mexican land grant, creating one of the first major Anglo settlements and earning him the title “Father of Texas.” -
The Mexican government passed this law to stop immigration from the United States and enforce taxes, increasing tensions that would lead to revolution. -
The first shots of the Texas Revolution were fired at the Battle of Gonzales, where Texans raised the “Come and Take It” flag in defiance of Mexican troops. -
For 13 days, Texan defenders held the Alamo against Santa Anna’s army before being overrun. Their bravery inspired the cry, “Remember the Alamo!”
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Sam Houston’s troops defeated Santa Anna’s army in just 18 minutes, securing Texas independence and forming the Republic of Texas. -
Texas officially became the 28th state of the United States, leading to celebrations across Texas and setting off tensions with Mexico. -
Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved people were free — marking the true end of slavery in Texas. -
Texas adopted its current state constitution, which still serves as the foundation of Texas government today.