Texas ( TEK-səss) is a state in the United States. Located in the south-central part of the country, it borders Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico. It also borders Mexico along the Rio Grande, and has a coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. Covering 268,596 square miles (695,660 km2) and with an estimated population of over 31.7 million residents in 2025, it is the second-largest state by both area and population. Texas is nicknamed the "Lone Star State" for the single star depicted on the Republic of Texas flag in 1836 during the Texas war for independence from Mexico, symbolizing Texans' enduring independent spirit and distinct national identity. The lone star design was originally flown in 1819 during the Long Expedition, an early attempt to liberate Texas from Spanish imperial rule. Spain was the first European country to claim and control Texas, followed by brief French colonization. The territory became part of Mexico after its independence from Spain in 1821. Increasing tensions between settlers and the Mexican government culminated in the Texas Revolution, which included the Battle of the Alamo, and led to the establishment of the independent Republic of Texas in 1836. In 1845, Texas joined the United States as the 28th state, which helped spark the Mexican–American War. Texas remained a slave state until the American Civil War, during which it seceded from the Union and joined the Confederate States. After the war and the restoration of its representation in the federal government, Texas entered a prolonged period of economic stagnation before undergoing substantial economic growth in the 20th century. The economy of Texas is highly diversified with major industries including energy, agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and aerospace. It has the second-highest gross state product among U.S. states and has led the country in state export revenue since 2002. Its largest metropolitan areas include the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and Greater Houston, while Austin is the state capital. Texas contains diverse landscapes spanning the Gulf Coast, Piney Woods, plains, hills, deserts, and mountains, reflecting its large size and varied topography.
