1. In 1835, the Battle of Gonzales took place, marking the beginning of the Texas Revolution. Texan rebels refused to give up a cannon that had been given to them by the Mexican government, leading to a confrontation with the Mexican army. The Texans successfully defended their position and the battle became known for the famous slogan, "Come and Take It."

2. In 1896, the Texas State Capitol building was dedicated. The current capitol building replaced the previous one which had burned down in 1881. Standing at 308 feet, the Texas State Capitol is taller than the United States Capitol and is the sixth tallest state capitol building in the country.

3. In 1944, the first successful flight test of the new Bell XP-83 jet fighter took place in Amarillo. The XP-83 was designed to be a high-altitude interceptor aircraft but never entered full production due to engine problems and the end of World War II.

4. In 1960, Marvin "Shank" Robinson became the first African American football player to sign a letter of intent with a major university in the state of Texas when he committed to play for the University of Texas. Robinson later transferred to Prairie View A&M University where he became a standout player and coach.

5. In 1999, the Texas A&M Bonfire collapsed, killing 12 and injuring 27 others. The bonfire was a longstanding tradition at Texas A&M University, but after the tragic accident, the school suspended the bonfire indefinitely. A memorial now stands at the site of the collapse, honoring the victims of the tragedy.