7 Ways Texas is Different from the Other States … and Why

Texas is an American state found in the South Central region of the United States of America. In 2020, the state boasted over twenty-nine million residents and covered an area of approximately 268,596 square miles.

This makes Texas the second largest state in America by both population and area after California by population and Alaska by area. It is surrounded by the American states of Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico as well as the Mexican states of Tamaulipas, Nuevo León, Coahuila, and Chihuahua.

Brief History

Texas was originally a province of Mexico in the early 1800s according to the County Map of Texas’ website. The state then gained independence in 1836 and became an independent state.

It thereafter joined the United States union in 1845 and became the 28th state of the United States of America.

Apart from being the second largest state in the U.S, it is also larger than most countries across the globe such as England and France. It is actually bigger than these two countries combined!

What Makes Texas Different?

Texas is Associated With Big Things

As discussed above, Texas is the second-largest state in both land and population in the United States of America. That is not just it, the capitol building in Texas is also big, even taller than the one in Washington D.C.

In Houston, you will find the San Jacinto monument. Even though this monument resembles the one in Washington D.C, it is taller by thirteen feet.

The Chihuahuan Desert holds the title of the most expansive desert in North America, stretching its arid landscape across areas of New Mexico, Texas, a portion of southeastern Arizona, and into multiple states within Mexico. If your travels ever take you to the remote wonders of Far West Texas, prepare to be captivated by the enchanting beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert. And while you’re there, don’t miss the chance to discover the vibrant and picturesque towns of Marfa and Alpine TX – each a treasure in its own right, brimming with unique allure!

Winter is not Always Annual

Most states in the U.S. have to experience winter every year. However, among the interesting facts about Texas is that winter is not always annual. Sometimes, Texas will experience another summer instead of winter.

The authorities in Texas do not wait for actual snow for them to close schools. Just a threat of it, or rather signs that it is going to snow will be enough for them to order the closure of schools.

Texas Flag is Special

You most likely have heard about the term lone star when people are talking about Texas. This term comes from the Texas flag. It reminds them about the ten years when Texas was actually a country on its own as well as their fight for independence.

Additionally, the only flag in all the states in the U.S that can fly at the same level as the United States flag is the Texas flag. This shows how symbolic this flag is. You will also find the shape of the state or the lone star flag symbol on almost all products that come from Texas.

It Takes Approximately Twelve Hours Across the State

If you ask anyone living anywhere in the state of Texas, you will find that they all know that it takes approximately twelve hours across the state. It does not matter whether you are traveling from east to west or north to south.

People living in Texas are used to long road trips compared to most people in other states. Texas is one of the states where most people will take a flight only when leaving the state.

Texans Love Chili

Chili has on numerous occasions been considered the official dish in Texas. Texans love their chili so much and they make sure that their chili does not contain beans. They even organize weekend-long festivals just for the creation of chili such as the Terlingua Chili Cook-off.

Texas is the State of Football

Most people have watched the Varsity Blues and Friday Night Lights films. Even though these are not documentaries, they highlight how important football is in the state of Texas.

You will even find some high schools with football stadiums that compete with other professional stadiums across the entire United States. You will also find a lot of NFL greats who come or came from Texas.

Texas Schools Teach About Their History

Texas has so much history that their children have to learn the history of Texas from the time they are in Kindergarten to the time they are done with high school.

If you were to ask a public school child about Texas, you would probably have to sit because they know a lot about where their state has come from.

Conclusion

Texas is a beautiful state. It also offers a lot of beautiful scenery for visitors and has amazing food choices. This, together with the other things discussed above, explains the reasons why Texas is different from other states.