After Texas won independence from Mexico in 1836, it became the Republic of Texas. This was the time when Texas was its own country. It lasted until 1845, when Texas joined the United States.

Life in the Republic of Texas was not easy. Leaders had to build a government, protect the land, and help the economy grow. People in Texas also had different experiences based on where they lived and who they were.

Work and the Economy

Many Texans worked in farming and ranching. Some people lived on a plantation, which was a large farm that often grew cotton. Cotton was an important crop because farmers could sell it for money.

Other Texans raised livestock such as cattle. Ranching became an important part of life in Texas. Farmers and ranchers helped supply food, clothing materials, and other goods.

Much of this work depended on unfair labor. Many cotton farms used enslaved African Americans, who were forced to work without freedom. Enslaved people helped grow the economy, but they were treated cruelly and denied basic rights.

Texas also had free Black Texans. These were African Americans who were not enslaved. Even so, they still faced unfair laws and limits on their freedom.

Schools, Religion, and Daily Life

Leaders in Texas knew that children needed education. They made plans for a public school system, which is a group of schools supported by the government. These early plans helped shape education in Texas later on.

People in Texas also cared about religious freedom. This means people could choose and practice their own religion. Many settlers thought this right was important in their new country.

Daily life depended on where people lived. Some families lived on farms and ranches. Others lived in small towns. People worked hard to build homes, grow food, and take care of their families.

Challenges in the Republic

The Republic of Texas faced many problems. The government did not have much money. It also had trouble keeping the country safe and running smoothly.

Even with these problems, Texas leaders tried to create laws and organize the country. They worked on schools, trade, and land issues. These choices helped prepare Texas for statehood.

In 1845, the Republic of Texas ended when Texas became a state. The years of independence were short, but they were important. During that time, Texas built the early systems and traditions that shaped its future.