Texas is known for its cowboy hats, barbeque, and oil fields. It’s also known for its large size, ranking second only to Alaska in terms of land area. However, there are many surprising facts about Texas that most people aren’t aware of. In this article, we’ll explore five of the most interesting ones.
1. Texas Was Once Its Own Country
Most people are aware that Texas was once a part of Mexico and gained independence in a war that lasted from 1835 to 1836. However, what many people don’t realize is that Texas was its own independent country for almost a decade. From 1836 to 1845, Texas was known as the Republic of Texas and had its own government and military. It’s the only state to have ever been an independent nation.
2. Texas Has the Highest Speed Limit in the United States
If you love driving fast, you might want to move to Texas. In 2017, the state increased its speed limit to 85 mph on some rural highways. This makes it the highest speed limit in the entire United States. However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t mean you should drive recklessly. Always follow the speed limit and drive safely.
3. The First Word Spoken on the Moon Was “Houston”
On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon. As he made his famous step, the first word he spoke was “Houston.” This was a reference to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, which was responsible for organizing the mission.
4. The Tallest State Capital Building is in Texas
The Texas State Capitol building is an impressive structure. It was completed in 1888 and is made of pink granite. It’s also the tallest state capital building in the United States. In fact, it’s taller than the United States Capitol building in Washington, DC.
5. The State Mammal of Texas is the Armadillo
If you’ve ever visited Texas, you’ve probably seen an armadillo or two. These cute and quirky animals are the state mammal of Texas. They’re found throughout the state and are known for their tough, protective armor.
In conclusion, Texas is full of surprises. From being its own independent country to having the highest speed limit in the United States, there’s always something interesting to learn about this state. By exploring these five surprising facts, you’ve gained a deeper understanding of what makes Texas so unique.
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