I’ve traveled around Texas, and I’ve noticed something: Texans don’t just live in Texas… they seem to LOVE being Texans. But why? Is it the history? The size? The culture? The food? The independence? Or is there something else going on?
I’m going to find out. And I’m not going to ask other travel vloggers. I’m going to ask Texans. Over the next few months I am going to expand my travels throughout The Lonestar state and see what answers we get. Below are a few of my ideas.
Texas has its own origin story. Texas was once an independent republic, and that six-year period from 1836–1845 is still deeply embedded in the state’s identity. The Alamo, San Jacinto, the Texas Revolution and the Republic of Texas give Texans a history that feels almost like a separate national story.
The state is enormous. Texas is geographically bigger than many countries. East Texas doesn’t look like West Texas. The Hill Country isn’t the Panhandle. The Gulf Coast isn’t the Rio Grande Valley. That variety gives people a tremendous sense of place—and Texans can argue endlessly about which part is the “real” Texas.
Texas culture is unusually recognizable. Cowboy culture, ranching, oil, BBQ, Tex-Mex, country music, rodeos, boots, bluebonnets, high school football and enormous pickup trucks have created an identity that people outside Texas recognize instantly. Texas has a history of doing things “our way.” The mythology of independence is powerful. Whether it’s completely accurate or not, the Texas identity often celebrates self-reliance, individualism and the idea that Texans don’t need anyone telling them how to do things.
Texas pride is passed down. For many families, being Texan isn’t simply where you happen to live. It’s something grandparents, parents and children talk about. The stories get repeated—and traditions become part of the identity. And Texans aren’t shy about advertising it! You see Texas flags everywhere. Texas-shaped souvenirs. Texas license plates. Texas-themed restaurants. “Don’t Mess with Texas.” “Everything’s bigger in Texas.” And, of course, the ubiquitous Texas flag.
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