4 Reasons Why Texas is Called the Lone Star State

Author: Jason Coles

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Updated On:

Every state in the U.S. boasts a distinct nickname, which is often rooted in its history – reflecting the people, both past and present, as well as historical triumphs that have shaped the landscape of the states that we know today.

And when it comes to Texas, the “Lone Star State” truly showcases its frontier spirit and rugged individualism!

However, despite the fame attached to this nickname, there is plenty of mystery surrounding it – leaving many to wonder how Texas earned this iconic moniker.

From the tales of independence to symbolic representation, as well as deep-seated multicultural roots, the Lone Star State’s story is as diverse as its people. So, buckle up as we delve into the many theories and reasons behind Texas’ beloved nickname!

Why is Texas Called the Lone Star State

Before jumping into the list, it is important to clarify that, despite having origins that date back to 1836, the Texas state nickname “Lone Star State” is not incorporated in legislation, unlike most other states.

However, similarly to other states, you can find the famous nickname on Texas license plates and other nickname mentions all across the state, keeping that tradition going.

1. Mexican Independence Star

It may come as a shock, but Texas used to be a province of Mexico until 1836 and was named “Coahuila y Tejas”. Texas fought for its independence between 1835 and 1836, and the lone star nickname comes from the fact of there only being one star present on the 1836 flag of the Republic of Texas once the region declared independence.

However, something important to note is that the first nickname adopted by the Republic of Texas was the “Lone Star Republic” in 1836. It wasn’t until Texas was admitted to the union in 1845 that it was changed to the “Lone Star State”.

The state became an independent country for a fairly substantial amount of time before it joined the union on December 29, 1845, becoming the 28th official U.S. state.

Many still believe that the lone star stands for the people of Texas (Texans) and how they wanted to be different and unique – ultimately becoming independent.

2. Early Texan Outliers

Texas and Texans (people from Texas) have been branded as outliers for many years since they reclaimed their independence from Mexico, displaying incredible feats of bravery, which has been embodied by the lone star of Texas.

3. Texas State Flag and Other Symbols

You can find the lone star located on a whole host of Texas symbols, but primarily the state flag, state seal, and state quarter. The white star on the state flag is the lone star, and the blue stripe and red color of the flag both represent courage and loyalty.

These two things are incredibly important to the people of Texas and are also what they are best known for. Also, the lone star has exactly five points, representing each letter of the state name “Texas”.

The reason why the Texas flag only contains one star is pretty self-explanatory; it is because Texas is the lone star state! Only requiring one star, that of the lone star.

4. Official Documents and Seal

Originally, the “Lone Star” was invented as early as 1821 by Henry Smith, who, at the time, was the Governor of the Mexican Providence of Texas. He was signing some important documentation when he realized that Texas didn’t have a seal.

State Seal of Texas

The coat he was wearing sported five-pointed stars on the buttons of the jacket, so he decided to remove one by cutting it off and then stamping it on the documents. Shortly after this, the Texas state seal we know today was born, and subsequently, the Lone Star State.

Final Thoughts on the Lone Star State

Texas is one of the most historic states in the nation, and when you consider that the region was originally Mexican, you can see how far the state has come over the past few centuries!

However, something that will never change is the culturally significant nickname, which not only best represents the state of Texas and its unique history, but the people of the state too, and their bravery and true individualism.

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Texas

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Jason Coles

Jason Coles is the Founder of Foreign USA and its Chief Content Writer and Editor. Recognized as a prolific business plan writer by many prominent immigration attorneys in the U.S. who refer his services to their clients regularly, Jason has written over 1,340 business plans across the past 17+ years for start-up companies and franchises looking to expand their footprint in the United States. Jason is considered a seasoned expert in his field. He creates detailed business plans for his clients that include five-year financial projections, market and industry analysis reports, demographic studies, organizational charts, job descriptions, employee hiring plans, and more.