Texas is the second largest state in the United States by both area and population, located in the southern region. Its capital city is Austin, while the largest city is Houston. The state is known for its diverse landscapes that include deserts, swamps, pine forests, and 367 miles of public coastline.
Texas's economy is one of the largest in the world and is diverse, having a base in high technology, oil, agriculture, steel, banking, and tourism. The state is known for its cowboy culture and love for football. Additionally, Texas has a rich history and was once an independent nation, the Republic of Texas, before becoming the 28th state of the United States.
Additionally, the state is a melting pot of cultures, evidenced by its multicultural cuisine and music. Texas is synonymous for its BBQ, Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. The state’s music is a mix of country, blues, rock, and tejano music.
Texas is also home to many notable educational institutions including the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University.
The state is the leading crude oil and natural gas producer in the country and is also a major agricultural state. Texas has a mix of both large cities and rural areas, and it has a varied climate due to its size. The Panhandle region has colder winters compared to the Gulf Coast area, which is more humid and subtropical.