October 2, 2016

Texas is nicknamed the Lone Star State to signify its former status as an independent republic, and as a reminder of the state's struggle for independence from Mexico. The nickname "Lone Star State" originates from the star on the 1836 flag of the Republic of Texas. The "Lone Star" can be found on the Texas state flag, the state seal, and the U.S. Mint's bicentennial commemorative quarter for Texas. The origin of the state name is from the word "Tejas", which means "friends" in the Caddo language.