1. Texas became a Republic on April 7, 1846: On this day, the Republic of Texas was officially annexed to the United States as the 28th state. Texas had been an independent republic for almost ten years before it joined the Union.

2. San Jacinto Day: April 7 marks the anniversary of the Battle of San Jacinto, which occurred on April 21, 1836. This decisive Texan victory led to the capture of Santa Anna and the end of the Texas Revolution. Many Texans celebrate San Jacinto Day as a symbol of Texas independence and freedom.

3. The 1936 Texas Centennial: On April 7, 1936, Texas began celebrating its centennial, marking 100 years since it declared independence from Mexico in 1836. The year-long celebration included parades, pageants, exhibits, and other events throughout the state.

4. The opening of the Houston Astrodome: On April 9, 1965, the Houston Astrodome opened its doors, becoming the world's first indoor stadium. The Astrodome, also known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," hosted sports events, concerts, and other events for over three decades.

5. The birth of Barbara Jordan: On April 7, 1936, Barbara Jordan was born in Houston, Texas. Jordan was a lawyer, educator, and politician who became the first African American woman elected to the Texas Senate and the first African American woman from the South to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Jordan also delivered the keynote speech at the 1976 Democratic National Convention, becoming the first African American woman to do so.