The government of Texas traces its origins to the Revolution of 1835-1836, an uprising against the centralist regime then ruling Mexico. After securing independence, Texas existed as a sovereign republic until it joined the United States in 1845. Texas law and government reflect this complex past, blending influences from English common law and American constitutionalism with traces of Spanish and Mexican civil law, alongside unique Texas innovations and adaptations. Today, the State of Texas governs a population of 31 million and a territory larger than France. Take some time to learn about the laws and government of Texas—and how it came to be.