1. On August 9, 1845, a joint resolution admitting Texas as the 28th state of the United States was signed by President James K. Polk. This event marked the culmination of years of strife and controversy surrounding Texas' status as an independent republic, and paved the way for its eventual incorporation into the Union.

2. August 9 is also recognized as the anniversary of the Battle of Nueces, a little-known but significant engagement that took place in 1862 near the town of Comfort. The battle pitted a group of pro-Union German settlers against Confederate forces, and was one of the few instances in which Texans actively opposed secession during the Civil War.

3. In a tragic turn of events, August 9, 1966, saw the infamous shootings at the University of Texas at Austin, in which student Charles Whitman opened fire from the school's clock tower, killing 16 people and injuring dozens more. The incident remains one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history, and has had a profound impact on discussions surrounding gun control and mental health.

4. On a lighter note, August 9 also marks National Book Lovers Day, a holiday dedicated to celebrating the love of reading and the joy of literature. In a state known for its literary traditions and iconic writers, this is certainly a fitting occasion to appreciate Texas' rich literary heritage.

5. Finally, August 9 marks the start of the National Hobo Convention in Britt, Iowa, a festival that has been held annually since 1900 to honor the bohemian lifestyle and culture of the American hobo. While this may seem like a curious fact to include on a list of Texas history, it is worth noting that many hobos made their way through the Lone Star State during the early 20th century, and were often the subject of much fascination and curiosity among local communities.