1. Statehood

2. March 1, 1845 – resolution signed by U.S. Congress March 1, 1845 – resolution signed by U.S. Congress Texas could be divided into 5 states Texas could be divided into 5 states Pride in independence Pride in independence

3. Texans Most people were used to a U.S. Government Constitutional Convention July 4, 1845 Thomas Jefferson Rusk – President of the Convention Texas Constitution close to other U.S. state Constitutions

4. Delegates studied other state constitutions (especially Louisiana), as well as the U.S. Constitution Special provisions – Protected homesteads from being taken to pay debts No ministers and priests could serve in the legislature Settlers could bring slaves Protected the right of women to own land

5. Executive governor and lieutenant governor; two year terms – up to two terms (no more than four years in a six year period) Legislative – House of Representatives (two year terms) / Senate (four year terms) Judicial – court system Texas Supreme Court - highest

7. James Pinckney Henderson = Governor Only served one term Albert C. Horton = Lt. Governor Thomas J. Rusk (six year) and Sam Houston (two year) = Senators