Did you know that Texas is the second-largest state in the United States? It’s also the fastest-growing state in the country. With a population of over 28 million, there’s a lot of exciting history and culture to explore in The Lone Star State.
There’s so much to learn about Texas we can’t possibly cover it in a single article! So, we compiled some of our favorite fun facts. Check out nine surprising tidbits about Texas.
1. In Texas, Marijuana Is Legal for Medicinal Purposes
If you need marijuana for its medicinal properties, Texas allows that. There is one caveat, though. You must have a qualifying medical condition and get a medical marijuana card.
The good news is that you can obtain a medical marijuana card from the state. However, you must be diagnosed with qualifying conditions to qualify for a card.
A few medical conditions that qualify you to receive a card include:
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Glaucoma
- Multiple sclerosis
- Seizures spasticity
If you’re not sure if you qualify, check out the Texas Department of Public Safety website. There’s a list of conditions on the site.
Many reputable websites have instructions on how to get a medical marijuana card in Texas. For example, Veriheal gives you the option to apply for a card through their site.
2. The Six Flags Flying Over Six Flags Over Texas Theme Park Are Symbolic
Six Flags Over Texas is a fun theme park locals and tourists love. What makes it even more fun is that it has six flags flying above the park. These flags are symbolic. They symbolize the six different countries that have ruled over it.
These countries include, in no particular order:
- Spain
- France
- The Republic of Mexico
- The Republic of Texas
- The Confederate States of America
- United States of America
These flags fly high above the seal of Texas. Many people who have seen them say it’s an incredible sight. The flags mark this as a place where you can experience history come alive.
3. Texas Has its Own Power Grid
The state established the Texas power grid during WWII. During the war, all the state’s factories needed to be self-sufficient. So, Texas made it happen by creating its own power grid.
For Texas, this is a huge advantage. Other states rely on electricity from elsewhere in America or overseas. After all, electricity is an essential ingredient for their manufacturing process.
However, for Texas, manufacturers produce goods at home without depending on outside sources. Texas might be spared if anything were ever to go awry, while other states may be in disarray.
4. Texas’ Flag Designer Remains Unknown
The Texas flag symbolizes pride for many people, but its designer remains unknown. Early drawings by Dr. Charles B Stewart show that he drew what is now known as “the Lone Star Flag.” It was enacted into law through legislation between 1897 and 1985.
Yet, nobody knows precisely who designed it. Unfortunately, records were not as accurate as they are today. And thus, there’s no way to know the exact date today.
5. It’s Home to the Deadliest Ever Natural Disaster in the U.S
The deadly Galveston Hurricane of 1900 is the United States’ deadliest natural disaster. It left behind a storm surge estimated between 6-15 feet (2 meters). This deadly storm claimed over 12 thousand lives in just two days. The next most destructive hurricane was Katrina, with at least 1,200 deaths.
Since then, Texas has experienced other unprecedented disasters and weather phenomenons. But the disasters have not been nearly as destructive as the one in 1900.
6. The Texas State Capitol Is the Largest State Capitol Building
Texas’ state capitol building is the largest in the nation. It’s also one of the most beautiful, with its white dome and intricate details. The capitol was built in 1885 and is now a national historic landmark.
If ever you should visit Texas, be sure to visit the capitol building. It’s a sight to behold and has plenty of history for you to soak up and absorb!
7. No European Country Is Bigger Than Texas
If Texas were a country, how do you think it would rank? It would rank as the 40th biggest land area!
It’s so big that no European country is larger than it! If you’ve been to Europe before, try to envision this in your mind. You’ll likely conclude that Texas is indeed a large state!
8. Texas’ Flag Has the Same Colors as the U.S. Flag
The famous Texas flag is an American symbol of pride and liberty. The colors red, white, and blue represent bravery in battle. And the colors also represent purity from the blood spilled on behalf of one’s compatriots.
9. Texas Is Home to the Largest Bat Colony
The largest known bat colony in North America is known as Bracken Cave. It just so happens that Bracken Cave is on the outskirts of San Antonio, Texas. This location houses over 20 million bats!
Interestingly enough, these bats amount to more than half of all bats nationwide. Plus, believe it or not, it significantly exceeds Mexico City’s human population!
The second-largest urban area with active colonies also falls under Texas. So, if you plan to visit Texas, make time to check out the bats!
Conclusion
The state of Texas is a fascinating place with so many interesting facts. And these tips are just the tip of the iceberg! We’d encourage you to continue to learn more about Texas on your own.
Besides Texas, take the time to learn more about the state you live in. You may not become a history buff overnight, but you’ll have fun facts to share with all your friends!
