Do you know that an American state was ever an independent country with its president, military, currency, and foreign policy? That state is Texas. From 1836 to 1845, Texas was present as the Republic of Texas, a sovereign nation born of revolution and resistance against Mexican rule. Its brief but eventual freedom today remains a point of pride and attraction for many Texans. During this time, Texas was recognized by several countries, including the United States, and even diplomatic missions were held abroad. A trip from an independent republic to the Mexican region and eventually an American state makes Texas one of the most historically unique states in the nation. This article suggests how Texas became its own country - if only for some time.

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Which U.S. State Was Once a Country?

The Republic of Texas was a sovereign nation that was present from 1836 to 1845 after its successful rebellion against Mexico in the Texas Revolution. After announcing independence on March 2, 1836, Texas faced immediate challenges - mostly, continuous threats from Mexico, lack of financial stability, and diplomatic recognition. 

The first President, Sam Houston, played an important role in shaping the new Republic, advocating peace with the original American tribes and working towards the United States. The Republic had its own constitution, currency (known as Texas dollars or "redbacks"), postal service, military, and even navy. It founded a capital in Houston, which later moved to Austin. America, France, and the U.K. For example, despite being recognized by nations, Texas remained insecure due to its economic conflicts and border disputes with Mexico. 

Politically divided between those who continued freedom and those who were in favor of joining the US, Texas eventually opted for annexation. On December 29, 1845, Texas became the 28th state of the United States, which ended its short-term national status. However, the heritage of the Republic of Texas remains strong, which symbolizes the state's "lone star" identity and is permanent in its independent sense.

How Did Texas Become an Independent Country?

Texas became an independent country after a successful rebellion against Mexican rule. In the early 1800s, Mexico encouraged American settlers to move into Texas, then part of Mexican territory. Over time, tensions grew due to cultural and political differences, including disputes over language, religion, slavery, and government authority. By the 1830s, many settlers, along with native Tejanos, were frustrated with Mexican President Santa Anna’s centralized rule.

The conflict escalated into the Texas Revolution in 1835. Key battles, including the Battle of the Alamo and the decisive Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, led to a victory for the Texan forces under Sam Houston. Santa Anna was captured and forced to sign a treaty granting Texas its independence. On March 2, 1836, Texas officially declared itself the Republic of Texas, becoming a self-governed nation for the next nine years before joining the United States in 1845.

Annexation to the United States

After almost a decade as an independent nation, the Republic of Texas faced the ongoing challenges of threats from Mexico, hazards, economic instability, and rising debt. Many Texans believed that joining the United States would provide protection and prosperity. Although Texas quickly demanded annexation, the US government was hesitant due to slavery, relations with Mexico, and concerns over political balance between free and slave states. By 1844, the expansionist spirit was growing in America, especially in President James. 

On December 29, 1845, Texas was officially admitted to the Union as the 28th state. The move angered Mexico, which had never recognized Texas's independence, which directly led to the Mexican-American War in 1846. Annexation made Texas a full American state but also retained some privileges, such as keeping its public land. This historic union remains a decisive moment in both Texan and American history.