Birthday wishes to Texas are in order. On March 2, 1836 Texas declared its independence from Mexico. Indeed, I bring this up for a couple of reasons. First, as a Republican, you gotta love Texas. Second, feeling my home state roots, it is nice to remind people that the independence and formation of Texas relied on Tennessee leadership.

Tennessean George Childress drafted the document that declared Texas an independent Republic, modeling the declaration largely on the sentiments and words of Thomas Jefferson. Sam Houston spent signficant time in Tennessee before going to Texas, opening a law office in Lebanon, Tennessee, serving as the district attorney for Nashville, as congressman, and eventually as Tennessee’s governor for one year after being elected in 1827. And, everyone knows where former Tennessee congressman Davy Crockett made his last stand.

With only a wry smile, I say happy birthday, Texas – and you’re welcome!