- **Date of Independence:** March 2, 1836 (Republic of Texas from Mexico) - **Date of Annexation to [[United States of America (USA)]]:** December 29, 1845 - **Population (2025):** 31.3 million - **GDP (2025):** $2.7 trillion - **Largest City:** Houston (2.3 million) - **State Capital:** Austin (989,000) - **Historical Note:** Only U.S. state to have been an independent republic for nearly 10 years. Became the 28th state after annexation led to the Mexican-American War. Known for oil discovery at Spindletop (1901), cattle ranching, and modern technology hub. Second-largest state by both area and population.