You Know You're From Texas When... You Can Name All the Flags That Have Flown Over Your Head
Texas: Big steaks, bigger hair, and an even bigger history lesson hidden under that ten-gallon hat. This ain't your mama's state, with a past as colourful as a rodeo clown's wardrobe. So, how many flags have these dusty plains seen? Buckle up, buttercup, and get ready for a whirlwind tour of Texas's "flagpole forest."
Act 1: The OG Days - When Everything Was Owned by Someone Else
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Spain (various flags, 1519-1821): Yup, those same folks who brought us siestas and conquistadors. Imagine a world where Texas two-stepped to flamenco music!
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France (briefly in the 1680s): Bonjour, y'all! The French popped in for a cup of sweet tea (probably wine), but decided the heat wasn't worth the baguette.
Act 2: ¡Viva la Independencia! (and Secession)
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Mexico (1821-1836): Howdy, amigos! After Mexico gained independence from Spain, Texas became part of their fiesta. But things got a lil' spicy, and...
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The Republic of Texas (1836-1845): Remember the Alamo? This is where the "Come and Take It" attitude was born, along with the iconic Lone Star Flag.
Act 3: Stars and Stripes and... Rebel Stripes?
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The United States of America (1845-present): Texas joins the Union! Cue the fireworks and the world's largest barbecue.
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The Confederate States of America (1861-1865): The whole "states' rights" thing got a little out of hand for a while, but thankfully, barbecue remained un-confederated.
So there you have it, folks! The next time you're gazing at the Lone Star Flag flapping in the breeze, remember the crazy cast of characters who have claimed this land as their own. Texas: where the history is as rich as the gumbo, and the flags are as numerous as the stars at night (well, six of them, anyway).
