The “Six Flags Over Texas” were the six governments that at different times ruled all or part of Texas: Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States of America, and the United States of America.

What they mean

  • Spain ruled the area first, from 1519–1685 and 1690–1821.
  • France controlled it briefly from 1685–1690.
  • Mexico ruled from 1821–1836.
  • Republic of Texas was independent from 1836–1845.
  • United States of America has flown over Texas from 1845–1861 and again from 1865 to the present.
  • Confederate States of America controlled Texas from 1861–1865.

Why people know the phrase

The slogan appears on Texas history materials and is also the inspiration for the name of the Six Flags theme park chain.

Historical note

Texas uses a specific set of official flag designs for this history, including a Spanish flag, French flag, Mexican flag, Confederate flag, and the U.S. flag versions associated with the state seal.