It all began in 1836, when a group of settlers, outnumbered and outgunned, declared their independence from Mexico and formed the Republic of Texas. For nearly a decade, Texas stood as its own nation, with its own president, its own currency, and a fierce sense of identity. When it joined the United States in 1845, it didn't lose that spirit; instead, it brought with it a reputation for boldness, resilience, and pride.

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