Since Cortez first explored the area now known as Texas in 1519, six different nations have held sovereignty over it. Six nations, each with their own flag: the origin of the saying ”six flags over Texas.” If it sounds familiar, you may recognize it from one of the many businesses who have drawn inspiration from it when taking a name, including the Six Flags theme park.
To limit confusion and ensure accurate representation of history, the Texas Historical Commission determined which versions of each nation’s flag should be part of the six flags over Texas. The six flags they identified are represented on the reverse side of the State Seal of Texas.
Let’s take a look at these flags and the nations who flew them.



