1. In 1845, Texas officially became the 28th state of the United States after President James K. Polk signed the legislation admitting Texas to the Union. This was an important event in Texas history, marking its transition from a sovereign republic to a state within the United States.

2. In 1847, the Texas Rangers were officially established as a law enforcement agency. Originally formed to protect settlers from Native American raids, the Rangers have become an iconic symbol of Texas history and culture.

3. In 1963, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the National Urban Mass Transportation Act, which provided federal funding for urban public transit systems across the country, including in Texas. This was a significant moment in the development of public transportation in Texas, particularly in cities like Houston and Dallas.

4. In 1890, the first state capitol building in Austin was destroyed by fire. The building, which had been completed just 13 years earlier, was a significant loss for the state and led to the construction of the current capitol building, which was completed in 1888.

5. In 1935, the Texas Centennial Exposition opened in Dallas. The exposition was held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Texas independence and featured exhibits, concerts, and other events highlighting Texas history and culture. The exposition was a major success, attracting millions of visitors from across the country and helping to popularize many aspects of Texas culture.