Texas Independence Day on March 2 commemorates the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence on the same date in 1836. Inhabitants of Texas proclaimed independence from Mexico and established the Republic of Texas with the signing of this declaration by over 59 delegates.
Children’s events, re-enactments, live band music, and cook-offs are all part of the festivities. Storytelling sessions about how Texas gained independence from Mexico and became a republic are among the other activities.
History of Texas Independence Day
A congress of Texians and Tejanos convened at Washington-on-the-Brazos during the Texas Revolution and declared Texas’ independence from Mexico, and they became known as Texans. The delegates elected David Burnet as interim president and confirmed Sam Houston as commander-in-chief of all Texas armies.
In addition, the Texans adopted a constitution that guaranteed the unrestricted practice of slavery, which had previously been banned by Mexican law. In the meantime, in San Antonio, the Alamo was still under siege by Mexican General Antonio de Santa Anna, and the fort’s defenders awaited the last Mexican attack.
Santa Anna ordered his troops to invade the Alamo on March 6. The first and second Mexican charges were defeated by Travis’ artillery, but the Texans were overpowered in less than an hour, and the Alamo was seized. All of the Texan and American defenders were murdered in fierce hand-to-hand combat when Santa Anna instructed that no prisoners should be taken. The Alamo’s only survivors were a small group of civilians, chiefly women and children. During the siege and storming of the Alamo, hundreds of Santa Anna’s soldiers died.
Six weeks later, at San Jacinto, a huge Texan army led by Houston surprised Santa Anna’s forces. The Texans overpowered the Mexicans and took Santa Anna. The dictator was forced to acknowledge Texas’ independence and withdraw his troops south of the Rio Grande. Nine years after the Texas Declaration of Independence was written, the Republic of Texas was annexed to the United States by the collective agreement of the United States Congress.
On December 29, 1845, the United States Congress officially recognized Texas as a member of the Union. Sam Houston Day and Texas Flag Day are also celebrated on March 2, albeit they are not legal holidays.
Texas Independence Day timeline
The revolution begins on October 2 as a rebellion instigated by colonists from the U.S., supported by Tejanos, to oppose Mexico’s centralist government.
The Republic of Texas wins its independence on April 21 with victory at the San Jacinto River.
On December 29, the United States Congress recognizes Texas as a constituent state.
Mexico goes to war with the United States over the Republic of Texas’ annexation.
Texas Independence Day FAQs
How do Texans greet one another?
“Howdy,” the official Texas greeting, is much more than a witty remark voiced by Woody, the “Toy Story” cowboy. True Texans use the word as a popular greeting.
Can Texas leave the U.S. legally?
Texas v. White, a landmark Supreme Court ruling, says that states cannot leave the union by state legislation.
What is the slogan of Texas?
In February 1930, the Texas state motto of friendship was established. The slogan was probably chosen because Texas, or Tejas, was the Spanish translation of the native Indian tribe’s “thecas or teyshas”, which means “friends or allies.”
How to Celebrate Texas Independence Day
Attend a festival
Attend one of the festivals held on Texas Independence Day to celebrate. There are tons of activities for children and adults to have a fun time.
Participate in a reenactment
Join a reenactment of the famous events during the Texas Revolution. Play dress-up and reenact the battle of the Alamo with friends.
Learn more about Texas
Texas has a lot to offer. From excellent barbecues to live music, the Lone Star State has tons of attractions and rich history.
5 Facts About Texas That Will Blow Your Mind
Dr Pepper was made in Texas
Dr Pepper was first publicly introduced in 1904 and is now distributed all over the world; it was invented in 1885 by Charles Alderton in Waco, Texas.
First frozen margarita
Mariano Martinez, a Dallas restaurateur, invented the first frozen margarita machine.
Six flags
Texas’ Six Flags theme park is named after the six countries that have presided over Texas; Mexico, Spain, the U.S., France, the Confederate States of America, and the Republic of Texas.
Powers that be
Texas has an independent power grid, it is separated from the rest of the United States.
Nightcrawlers
Bracken Cave in Texas houses North America’s largest bat colony.
Why We Love Texas Independence Day
It’s a source of inspiration
The story of the Texas Revolution is the perfect example of snatching victory against the odds. The Texans made the impossible a reality when they defeated their Mexican rivals who far outnumbered them.
It’s a crucial page in the history books
The road to independence is a story that will be passed down for generations in Texas. The legendary battles and tales of bravery will be remembered for years to come.
Appreciating the war heroes
Texas Independence Day is an opportunity to honor the sacrifice of those who fought for Texas’ independence. Their names are not forgotten and their deeds remain fresh in the memories of their successors.
Texas Independence Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 2 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 2 | Monday |
| 2027 | March 2 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | March 2 | Thursday |
| 2029 | March 2 | Friday |
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