When you talk to Texans in the United States, you can first feel their unique confident energy of "We are the best!" Why is that?

Texas has a population of over 30 million and has established itself as a hub of the U.S. economy and transportation. To the east, the Port of Houston, which is adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean, handles a large volume of cargo, and numerous airports across the state serve as logistics hubs. In particular, the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), considered the second largest airport in the world, acts as Texas's gateway to the skies and a global hub.

Additionally, there is no state income tax, and regulations on the business environment are relatively few. The slogan of minimizing government interference is famously known as 'Texas-style freedom.' This aspect starkly contrasts with California and is a major reason for the influx of many businesses and workforce into Texas. As of 2025, the abundant job opportunities and cultural infrastructure continue to attract a net influx of population, narrowing the gap with California each year.

The strong economy that began with Texas's oil industry is reflected in consumer patterns, earning the title of "the state with the most shopping malls per capita in the U.S."

This pride, which stands out among the 50 states, has been solidified into a strong 'brand' in the 21st century, intertwined with history, education, culture, economy, and symbolism.

Reasons Texans Exude State Pride

1. Unstoppable Historical Story
   Having directly experienced the dramatic transition from independence from Mexico (1836) to a republic (the Republic of Texas) and then to incorporation into the U.S. (1845), the DNA of "We are different!" has naturally taken root.

2. Vast Land and Resources
   In terms of area, Texas is larger than France, and with abundant oil and gas underground, it's easy to boast about "our size, our resources."

3. Hot Growth Rate
   With a lower unemployment rate than the national average and business-friendly regulations, major corporations like Tesla, Samsung, HP, and Oracle have relocated their headquarters and factories here. Employment is increasing, and the state's GDP ranks second in the U.S., after California. It's no wonder that pride in being "the land of opportunity" is growing.

4. Deep-rooted 'Freedom' Spirit
   A strong culture that values 'minimizing government interference' is evident in gun ownership, low taxes, and deregulation. 'Texas-style freedom' is both a way of life and a brand.

5. Cultural Icons that Differentiate from Other States
   Cowboys, barbecue, country music, Friday night football, and the enormous steaks that you can't find anywhere else... Every time we enjoy "our things," our affection explodes.

If we summarize the reasons why Texans love their state so much:

State Identity Instilled from Childhood!
In public schools, Texas History is a required subject for 4th and 7th grades. During morning assemblies, students pledge allegiance to both the American flag and the Texas flag, and even sing the state song. The educational curriculum naturally instills the identity of "I am a Texan." This is said to be a teaching method rarely seen in other states.

Endless Land and Resources - 'Everything is Big' Scale!
268,596 square miles—larger than any state except Alaska. The diverse geography that includes deserts, plains, and coasts, along with abundant oil and gas resources, makes the slogan "Everything is bigger in Texas" feel uniquely fitting. In fact, Texas's oil production is showing growth that can be compared to Saudi Arabia.

Unstoppable Economic Growth!
Thanks to low taxes and the booming energy, tech, and space industries, the employment growth rate from 2010 to 2019 exceeded the national average. As a result, as of 2021, 82% of Texans born in the state still live there, making it the state with the highest percentage of residents who have not moved to other states. This solid economic strength of Texas is indeed the foundation of their pride.

Openly Promoted Symbols and Myths
The slogan "Don't Mess with Texas," born from a waste reduction campaign in the 1980s, has now become a symbol of determination and unity. Compared to other states that may lack cohesion, it has solidified a sense of agreement that "We are different."

Ultimately, the pride of Texans is a 'lifestyle pride' that is learned in schools, seen and heard in daily life, confirmed through economic achievements, and enjoyed as cultural symbols.

As long as that big, fast, and unique momentum does not fade, the shout of "Forever Texas!" will likely continue.