Texas is a state located in the South Central region of the united states. It is the 2nd largest state at 268,581 square miles and the 2nd most populated, with over 27.8 million residents. It has the nickname, "The Lone Star State" for its former status as an independent republic along with a reminder of the state's struggle for independence from Mexico. The landscapes across Texas represent both southern and southwestern states due to its large size. It was the 28th state to join the U.S. back in 1845.