The addition of Texas as the 28th state of the United States was a major milestone in the history of the nation. On December 29, 1845, President James K. Polk signed a joint resolution of Congress, which proposed the admission of Texas into the Union. After winning its independence from Mexico a few years prior, Texas was ready to become a part of the United States and join in the spirit of democracy that had been sweeping the nation since its inception.
The journey to Texas becoming a state was a long and difficult one. In the early 1800s, Mexico had claimed control of the area that is now Texas. Over the next few decades, many American settlers moved to this area, hoping to find opportunity and freedom. But as they settled in, they soon realized that they were not welcome under Mexican rule. The Mexican government imposed heavy taxes on them, as well as restrictions on their rights and liberties. This caused tension between the Mexican government and the settlers, and eventually led to an uprising.
In 1836, the settlers declared their independence from Mexico, establishing the Republic of Texas. The Mexican government refused to recognize this independence and sent troops to put down the rebellion. After a long and bloody conflict—known as The Texas Revolution—the Texan settlers emerged victorious. On March 2, 1836, Texas was officially recognized as an independent nation.
Despite their victory, things were still uncertain for Texas. It was a small nation, with a population of only about 60,000 people. Furthermore, it had no real allies or powerful friends in the world. Thus, many of its citizens began to push for it to join the United States as a state, believing that this would give them greater security and protection.
In 1845, the United States Congress finally approved a joint resolution admitting Texas into the Union as the 28th state. This resolution was signed by President James K. Polk on December 29th of that same year, officially making Texas a part of the United States of America.
The addition of Texas as a state had far-reaching implications for both Texas and the entire nation. For starters, it doubled the size of the United States, giving it access to vast new territories and resources. It also increased the nation’s overall population and allowed it to expand its economic and political power.
For Texas itself, becoming part of the United States meant greater security and stability. It also meant access to federal funds and resources that could be used to further develop its infrastructure and economy. And most importantly, it meant that Texans could finally participate fully in the democratic process, having their voices heard in national elections and helping shape their country’s future.
Today, Texas is one of the most populous and prosperous states in the union. It is home to some of the nation’s most vibrant cities and vast open spaces. And it continues to serve as an important part of America’s history and identity—a reminder of how far our country has come since its humble beginnings and a symbol of what can be achieved through courage and determination.