1. In 1824, the Mexican government granted Stephen F. Austin a land grant to bring settlers to Texas. This began the colonization of Texas by Americans and opened the door to Texas' eventual independence from Mexico.

2. On August 3, 1861, the Battle of Mesilla took place in New Mexico, a territory at the time still claimed by Texas. Confederate forces led by Colonel John R. Baylor defeated Union forces and captured the town of Mesilla.

3. On August 3, 1936, the Texas Centennial Exposition closed in Dallas after a successful run of six months. The expo showcased Texas' history, industry, and culture and attracted over six million visitors.

4. In 1959, rock and roll legend Elvis Presley performed in Lubbock, Texas on August 3 as part of his national tour. The concert drew a crowd of over 9,000 people and is remembered as one of the most memorable events in Lubbock's history.

5. On August 3, 1979, Hurricane Allen made landfall on the Texas Gulf Coast as a Category 3 storm. The hurricane caused massive damage and flooding, but also demonstrated the state's resilience and ability to recover from natural disasters.