Texas is a state in both the West and South regions of the United States of America. It is also considered part of the Southwest and the Great Plains. With an area of 268,581 square miles (695,622 km²) and a population of 22.8 million, Texas is second to Alaska in area, and second to California in population.

The state name derives from a word in the Caddoan language of the Hasinai: táysha, tecas, or tejas (the Spanish spelling); meaning "those who are friends", "friends", or "allies".

Texas declared its independence from Mexico in 1836 and existed as the independent Republic of Texas for nearly 10 years. It joined the United States in 1845 as the 28th state. Texas is known for its large size, and things are said to be bigger in Texas. The state is often used as a point of reference for large geographical areas.