Did you know that before becoming America’s 28th state on December 29, 1845, Texas was its own independent country for nearly a decade? To earn its freedom, this sparsely populated territory had to fight against a much more powerful opponent, the Mexican Empire, to win its independence on March 2, 1836. To this day, Texans celebrate Texas Independence Day to honor the sacrifices of the many men who gave their lives to the fight for independence. Read on to learn about this unique holiday, its history, and its place in Texas’ cultural heritage.

Texas Independence Day History 

Like all U.S. states, the road to independence wasn’t an easy one for Texas. It took bravery, resilience, and determination to ensure all Texans could enjoy the freedoms we hold dear today. 

Colony beginnings 

The journey toward independence began long before Texas officially broke away, starting with the region’s early days under Spanish and later Mexican rule. When Mexico won its independence from Spain in 1821, Texas was populated mostly by Indigenous people. During this period, only around 3,500 Tejanos, people of Spanish or Mexican descent, lived within the region. 

Fearing the United States would try to claim Texas as its own, the Mexican government enacted policies to bring more settlers into the area. To do this, Mexico passed the General Colonization Law, which sought to spur economic development and strengthen border security against the U.S.  

Stephen F. Austin, an empresario or contractor tasked with recruiting settlers to the region, brought over 300 families, mostly Anglo-American cotton farmers from the southern United States, to settle along the Brazos River. Over the next ten years, the population grew dramatically, and Austin became a political figure in the area. While technically Mexican citizens, many settlers favored the U.S., causing differences and distrust to grow. 

What started the Texas Revolution?  

After years of rising conflict between the settlers and the Mexican government, tensions were at an all-time high. To prevent further unrest, Mexico’s president, Anastasio Bustamante, issued the Law of April 6, 1830, which restricted Anglo-American immigration into Texas and reinstated tariffs. 

Tensions between the two groups eventually led to armed conflicts, including the Anahuac Disturbance of 1832. In response to Mexican commander Juan Davis Bradburn's enforcement of strict policies, Texas settlers revolted, leading to his removal. Although Mexico did not fully abandon its garrisons, the conflict deepened resentment toward Mexican rule. 

Emboldened by their success, Texas colonists petitioned Mexico to repeal tariffs and lift immigration restrictions. When their requests were denied, Stephen F. Austin traveled to Mexico City in 1833 to negotiate. However, after suggesting that Texas form its own government, he was arrested and imprisoned for over a year. His capture only fueled tensions, setting Texas on a path to revolution. 

The Texas Revolution officially began in 1835 with the battle of Gonzales. The conflict began when Mexico’s dictator, Santa Anna, attempted to retake a cannon meant to protect Gonzales against Native American raids. 

This act was the final straw. The Texans fought back while challenging their rivals to “come and take it,” thus birthing the famous Gonzales flag. After their loss, Mexico’s army retreated to San Antonio. 

The origin of “Remember the Alamo” 

Unfortunately for Texans, the battle of Gonzales was only the beginning of their fight for independence. In March 1836, 200 brave defenders gathered at the Alamo to fight against Santa Anna’s forces. Despite being outnumbered at least 10 to 1, they held off the army for 12 days. 

As they fought, these warriors were unaware that only a short distance away, a small delegation meeting at Washington-on-the Brazos was performing their own heroic act. On March 2, they proudly issued the Texas Declaration of Independence, officially establishing the Republic of Texas. Four days later, Mexico defeated the heroes at the Alamo, leaving only a few women and children as survivors. 

Although the Texas Army lost the battle, the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence sent a shockwave through the region. Under the command of Sam Houston, the Texas army surprised Santa Anna’s troops at San Jacinto. Using the “Remember the Alamo” battle cry, the Texans defeated the Mexican army, captured Santa Anna, and ended the war. 

Texas Independence: It's Continued Legacy 

After struggling as an independent nation for nearly 10 years, Texas joined the United States as the 28th state. Though its time as an independent nation was brief, its legacy endures, symbolizing the state's deep-rooted spirit of resilience and self-governance. 

Texas Independence Day lets citizens honor all the brave soldiers who gave their lives during the Battle of the Alamo and San Jacinto. It is also a time for residents to come together and celebrate the incredible legacy of the Lone Star State. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Independence Day 

1. When is Texas Independence Day? 

Texas Independence Day is celebrated on March 2, commemorating the anniversary of the Texas Declaration of Independence created in the Washington-on-the-Brazos. 

2. How Do Texans celebrate their independence today? 

Today, Texans continue to celebrate the bravery of those who stood up to fight for freedom. There’s many different Texas Independence Day celebrations to enjoy, including the following. 

• -Visiting historical sights 
• -Hosting a barbeque 
• -Attending a parade 
• -Watching a rodeo 
• -Learning about Texas history 
• -Flying a Texas flag 

3. Is Texas Independence Day a public holiday? 

Yes, the Texas government considers Texas Independence Day a state holiday. While government employees are not required time off, state government offices and schools may reduce their operations. 

4. What other Texas holidays are observed on March 2nd? 

Texas Independence Day is the only official state holiday celebrated on March 2nd. However, some also observe Texas State Flag Day and Sam Houston Day. The latter celebrates Sam Houston’s birthday. In addition to leading the Texas army to victory in the battle of San Jacinto, Sam Houston served as the president of the Republic of Texas and was instrumental in helping it join the union. 

Celebrate Texas Independence Day with High-Quality Flags 

No Texas Independence Day celebration would be complete without a Texas flag. Texans proudly fly their flag year-round, celebrating their state’s rich history. The colors of the Lone Star state flag are identical to the American flag, but each one symbolizes something different. Blue stands for loyalty, red for bravery, and white for purity. The single white star on the flag’s left-hand side symbolizes the unity of Texas and its people.  

Carrot Top Industries proudly offers Texas state flags in various sizes and fabric types. We sell outdoor Texas flags, indoor Texas flags, and mini Texas flags to fit your organization’s needs. We also stock historical flags like the Gonzales Battle flag and the Alamo flag. You can even take advantage of our bulk discounts.  

Need help deciding which flag to buy? We have more than 40 years of experience in flags and can help your organization order what it needs. Don’t hesitate to contact our Flag Pros!