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Texas state history

Texas history includes the people, events, and ideas that shaped the state. Start with the Texas State Constitution to see how the government works. Then, explore resources from the Texas Historical Commission and the Texas State Historical Association. These will help you learn about important places and milestones. You can also download maps and guides or browse virtual archives by region, topic, or time period.

Texas State Constitution

The sun shines on the dome of the Texas State Capitol building, the seat of state government.

Read the Texas State Constitution to learn the rights, duties, and structure of Texas state government.

Historic guides and maps

A young couple explores a historic Texas site using a map, connecting with the stories behind the places.

Download historic guides and maps to plan visits and learn the stories behind important places in Texas.

Virtual archives and exhibits

A historic, sepia-toned photo of the Alamo is displayed next to an inkwell and quill, representing the state's rich archives.

Browse virtual archives and exhibits to explore historic records, photos, and collections from across Texas.

Texas Historical Commission

The Texas Historical Commission protects and shares historic places and cultural resources through programs that support education, travel, and community preservation.

Texas State Historical Association

The Texas State Historical Association shares trusted research, publications, and learning tools that connect Texans to the state’s past.

Behind the Photo

Behind every photo on a Texas driver license or ID is a story too rich to be captured on that small card we carry. Get to know more about these Texans who are preserving traditions, fostering community, and challenging expectations. Their stories may differ, but they share a common bond: They're Texans. 

Culture and attractions

Texas culture shines through its art, festivals, food, music, and travel destinations. Explore places across the state to learn, have fun, and plan your next trip. You can also nominate a Texas State Artist and celebrate creative talent in Texas.

Texas State Fair

A young family enjoys the rides and atmosphere of the Texas State Fair, a beloved annual tradition.

The State Fair of Texas celebrates Texas culture with food, music, agriculture, and family-friendly events each fall in Dallas.

The Alamo

The historic facade of the Alamo in San Antonio, a defining symbol of Texas history and independence.

The Alamo in San Antonio is a historic mission and battlefield where visitors can learn about a defining chapter of Texas history.

Space Center Houston

The space shuttle replica mounted on top of its carrier aircraft at Space Center Houston, highlighting Texas's role in space exploration.

Space Center Houston offers interactive exhibits and NASA experiences that highlight Texas’ role in space exploration.

6th Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

 The exterior of the former Texas School Book Depository, now a museum exploring the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy.

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza explores the life, legacy, and assassination of President John F. Kennedy through exhibits and historical archives.

San Antonio Riverwalk

A tour boat glides down the San Antonio Riverwalk, a vibrant destination for dining, shopping, and culture.

The San Antonio River Walk is a vibrant downtown destination with waterfront dining, shopping, and cultural events along the city’s historic river corridor.

Fort Worth Stockyards

Cowboys on horseback lead a cattle drive down a brick street at the Fort Worth Stockyards, a look at Texas's cowboy heritage.

The Fort Worth Stockyards offers a look at Texas cowboy heritage with historic districts, rodeos, live music, and daily cattle drives.

Nominate an artist for Texas State Artist

The Texas State Artist program, presented by the Texas Commission on the Arts, recognizes exceptional Texas creatives in visual art, music, and literary arts while highlighting their impact on communities across the state.

Discover more Texas attractions

Explore attractions across Texas to find trip ideas, must-see destinations, and planning resources for your next visit.

The iconic, graffiti-covered cars of Cadillac Ranch stand in a row at sunset, a must-see Texas destination.