Every March 2nd, Texas celebrates its independence from Mexico, a hard-won victory that gave birth to the Republic of Texas in 1836. It's a day when Texan pride runs especially high, and you'll see the Lone Star flag flying prominently across the state. But if you look closely, you'll often see it flying right alongside the American flag, a pairing that tells the unique story of Texas itself.

The Road to Independence

By early 1836, tensions between Texas colonists and the Mexican government had reached a breaking point. On March 2, 1836, at Washington-on-the-Brazos, 59 delegates signed the Texas Declaration of Independence. Just four days earlier, the Alamo had fallen after a 13-day siege. Sam Houston's army was in retreat. The fight for Texas independence seemed nearly impossible.

Yet within two months, General Sam Houston led his forces to a stunning victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, securing Texas independence and establishing the Republic of Texas, a sovereign nation that would stand alone for nearly a decade.

Two Flags, One Legacy

When Texas joined the United States in 1845, it brought with it a fierce independent spirit that endures to this day. That's why flying the Texas and American flags together isn't just ceremonial, it's symbolic. The Lone Star represents our proud history as an independent republic and the values Texans fought for: liberty, self-determination, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. The Stars and Stripes represents the nation we chose to join, the union we've served with distinction ever since.

According to proper flag etiquette, when displaying both flags on separate poles of equal height, the American flag should be positioned to its own right (the observer's left). When flown on the same pole, the U.S. flag goes on top. Both flags should be the same size, and both deserve equal respect.

Celebrating Texas Independence Day

This March 2nd, take a moment to honor the courage of those early Texans who risked everything for independence. Fly your flags with pride, both of them. Whether at your home, business, or community space, displaying the Lone Star and Old Glory side by side is a powerful reminder that Texas independence and American unity aren't contradictions. They're two chapters of the same story.

As we say in Texas: we're proud of where we came from, and proud of where we are.