Texas has a rich and complex Black history, with African Americans playing a significant role in shaping the state's cultural, social, and political landscape.

One of the most well-known aspects of Black history in Texas is the legacy of slavery. Slavery played a major role in the state's economy, particularly in agriculture and ranching. Many enslaved Africans were brought to Texas to work on plantations and farms, contributing to the state's early development.

After the Civil War, Texas underwent Reconstruction, during which African Americans gained more rights and a greater presence in politics. However, the period of Reconstruction was short-lived as Reconstruction efforts were eventually dismantled, and African Americans faced rampant discrimination and violence in the form of Jim Crow laws and segregation.

Despite these challenges, African Americans in Texas continued to make significant contributions to various fields. Notable figures in Texas Black history include Barbara Jordan, the first African American woman from the South elected to the U.S. House of Representatives; Scott Joplin, a renowned composer and pianist known as the "King of Ragtime"; and Bessie Coleman, the first African American woman to hold a pilot's license.

In more recent history, Texas has been at the forefront of the civil rights movement. The city of Houston, in particular, played a significant role in the movement, with activists like Reverend William A. Lawson and Congresswoman Barbara Jordan leading the fight for equality and justice.

Today, Texas continues to be a diverse and vibrant state with a strong Black community that has made invaluable contributions to the state's history and culture. The legacy of African Americans in Texas is a testament to their resilience, perseverance, and enduring impact on the state.