The Six Flags That Have Flown Over Texas
The history of Texas is a rich tapestry woven with the influence of multiple nations. Known as the “Six Flags Over Texas,” these flags represent the six sovereign entities that have ruled over Texas: Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the United States, and the Confederate States of America. Each flag symbolizes a distinct era, reflecting the dynamic and often turbulent history of the Lone Star State.
Spain (1519-1685 and 1690-1821)
Where and When: Spain claimed Texas as part of the Viceroyalty of New Spain from 1519, when Spanish explorer Alonso Álvarez de Pineda mapped the Texas coastline, until 1685. After a brief period of French presence, Spain reasserted control in 1690 and maintained it until Mexican independence in 1821.
Why: Spain sought to expand its empire in the New World, utilizing Texas as a buffer zone against French encroachments and as a potential site for missions to convert Indigenous peoples to Christianity.
Why They Gave It Up: Spain lost control due to the Mexican War of Independence (1810-1821), which led to Mexico’s independence from Spain. The Treaty of Córdoba in 1821 recognized Mexican sovereignty over Texas.
France (1685-1690)
Where and When: French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, established Fort Saint Louis near present-day Inez in 1685, marking a brief period of French control.
Why: La Salle aimed to establish a French colony at the mouth of the Mississippi River to strengthen France’s claim to the region, but he mistakenly landed in Texas.
Why They Gave It Up: The colony faced numerous challenges, including hostility from Indigenous tribes, supply shortages, and internal strife. After La Salle’s death and the eventual collapse of the colony, France abandoned its claim.
Mexico (1821-1836)
Where and When: Following its independence from Spain, Mexico governed Texas from 1821 to 1836.
Why: Mexico inherited Spanish territories in North America after gaining independence. Texas was part of the newly independent Mexican nation.
Why They Gave It Up: Tensions between Mexican authorities and Texan settlers (many of whom were Anglo-Americans) led to the Texas Revolution. Following the defeat of Mexican forces at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836, Texas declared its independence and became the Republic of Texas.
Republic of Texas (1836-1845)
Where and When: The Republic of Texas was an independent nation from 1836 until it joined the United States in 1845.
Why: Texas declared independence from Mexico after a series of conflicts, culminating in the victory at San Jacinto. The newly formed republic sought recognition and stability.
Why They Gave It Up: Facing financial difficulties, political instability, and the threat of renewed conflict with Mexico, the Republic of Texas sought annexation by the United States. In 1845, Texas was admitted to the Union.
United States (1845-1861 and 1865-present)
Where and When: Texas became the 28th state of the United States in 1845. It seceded during the Civil War (1861-1865) but was readmitted in 1865.
Why: Annexation was driven by the U.S. policy of Manifest Destiny, aiming to expand westward. The U.S. also sought to prevent Texas from forming alliances with European powers.
Why They Gave It Up: Texas seceded from the Union to join the Confederate States of America in 1861, largely due to disputes over states’ rights and slavery. After the Confederacy’s defeat in 1865, Texas was readmitted to the United States.
Confederate States of America (1861-1865)
Where and When: Texas was part of the Confederacy from 1861 to 1865 during the American Civil War.
Why: Texas joined the Confederacy due to shared economic and social interests with other Southern states, particularly the defense of slavery.
Why They Gave It Up: The Confederacy was defeated by Union forces in 1865, leading to the collapse of the Confederate government. Texas was subsequently readmitted to the Union.
