1. In 1837, the city of Houston was officially incorporated. Named after Sam Houston, the first president of the Republic of Texas, the city quickly became a hub for trade, transportation, and culture. Today, Houston is the fourth largest city in the United States and home to over 2 million people.

2. On August 17, 1862, the Battle of Galveston took place during the American Civil War. Confederate forces, led by General John B. Magruder, successfully reclaimed the city from Union control. The battle lasted for several hours and resulted in over 200 casualties.

3. In 1907, the East Texas Oil Field was discovered near the town of Henderson. This discovery launched the Texas oil boom, which would go on to have a major impact on the state's economy and society for decades to come.

4. On August 17, 1944, a tragic accident occurred at Camp Maxey in northeast Texas. A munitions explosion killed 46 soldiers and injured over 100 others. The camp was used as a training facility during World War II and was later deactivated in 1946.

5. In 1969, the Woodstock music festival was held in upstate New York. While not technically a Texas event, it had a significant impact on the counterculture movement of the time. Many Texans traveled to the festival to experience the music, art, and social experimentation that defined the event.