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Walk down the streets of any foreign city with an outline of North Dakota on your shirt and you’ll undoubtedly draw blank stares from passersby. But with the state of Texas on your chest, you’ll get a slap on the back, a “howdy pardner,” and the inevitable inquiries about horses, South Fork and J.R. Ewing. Although we’re known for our can-do attitude and adventurous spirit, it is our state’s heritage that truly sets us apart.
Very few states enjoy such a rich history. We are the only state to enter the United States as a sovereign nation. Each year, starting on March 2, when Texas declared its independence from Mexico, through April 21, San Jacinto Day, when we defeated the Mexican army, captured Santa Anna and won our freedom, people around the state find ways – small and grand – to celebrate being a Texan.
I have always loved Texas history in large part because of my family heritage. My great-great-grandfather, Charles S. Taylor, was an “Alcalde” or chief magistrate under the Mexican government. He was later elected as a delegate from Nacogdoches to the Convention, where he signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. He, along with 58 other delegates, declared our independence from Mexico, setting Texas on course to be an independent republic for 10 years before joining the United States. One of his fellow delegates was Thomas Rusk, who would later hold a seat in the United States Senate – the same seat I hold today.
Each year, on or about March 2, I take to the floor of the United States Senate to read Colonel William Barret Travis’ letter calling for reinforcements at the Alamo. That letter reads in part:
“I shall never surrender or retreat … I call on you in the name of liberty, of patriotism and of everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch. The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily and will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible and die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor and that of his country – Victory or death.”
The bravery and solidarity of Col. Travis and the men he led at the Alamo are unmatched. Their refusal to yield in San Antonio enabled General Sam Houston to build up his troops, preparing for ultimate victory at the Battle of San Jacinto.
It is important for Texans to revel in our history and celebrate the strength and valor of our forefathers. Our independence was born out of a great battle and must never be taken for granted.
In the nearly two centuries since the Battle of the Alamo, Texas has forged a distinct path, growing into a prosperous and vital state. We are the second most populous state, contributing nearly $700 billion dollars to our nation’s gross domestic product, and we have nurtured some of this country’s greatest leaders. Our geographic diversity, from the flatlands of the panhandle, to the lushness of the Hill Country, sets the perfect backdrop for the varied industries, cultures and people that call Texas home. It is a unique blend that creates a rich state of contrast, color and flavor.
It is my hope that all Texans learn the wonderful and rich history of our state, and continue to pass on the tales of our past through the generations. I’m proud to represent Texas in Washington and will continue to make sure the lessons learned from the challenges of our past pave the way for continued growth and prosperity.
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