Texas Independence Day

On this day in 1836, Texas declared its independence from Mexico. Of course, Mexico had only gained independence from Spain in 1821 after Spain had been significantly weakened during the Napoleonic Wars. The newly minted nation of Mexico was extremely large, politically volatile, and low on funds. Having a breakaway republic or two was perhaps inevitable.

Luckily for us, Texas did become its own country, and today Texans can celebrate independence day with a complimentary rattlesnake chili pie at one Dallas eatery, with live honkytonk music at multiple venues, or by attending a full-on Texas extravaganza near the barn-like structure on the Brazos where Texas became its own nation.

Washington-on-the-Brazos, where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed, is holding a grand celebration this weekend. Not only will they be celebrating the 180th anniversary of the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence but also the 100th anniversary of the state park itself. Folks in costumes will be firing cannons. There will be a medicine show. There will be a play about Texas independence, and folks on horseback will be delivering William B. Travis' letter from the Alamo. The Fightin' Aggie Band will be doing their thing as well. It should be a fine time indeed.

http://wheretexasbecametexas.org/events/texas-independence-day-celebration/ 

This is a map of Mexico in 1823. Mexico extended all the way south to Costa Rica at that time.