Six flags over Texas is the slogan used to describe the six sovereign countries that have had control over some or all of the current territory of the U.S. state of Texas: Spain (1519–1685; 1690–1821), France (1685–1690), Mexico (1821–1836), the Republic of Texas (1836–1845), the United States (1845–1861; 1865– ...

The history of Texas is famously summarized by the "Six Flags" that have flown over its territory, representing the six distinct nations that held sovereignty. First was Spain (1519–1685 and 1690–1821), during which time the Spanish explorers first mapped the coast and established the mission system. Briefly, France (1685–1690) claimed the region through the explorer Robert de La Salle's ill-fated colony, Fort St. Louis. Following the Mexican War of Independence, Mexico (1821–1836) gained control, although this period was marked by rising tensions with American settlers. This led to the Texas Revolution and the birth of the independent Republic of Texas (1836–1845), which existed as a sovereign nation for nine years. In 1845, Texas was annexed by the United States of America (1845–1861 and 1865–present). This was interrupted by the American Civil War, during which Texas joined the Confederate States of America (1861–1865). Each of these periods has left an indelible mark on the state's culture, architecture, and legal system, contributing to the "larger than life" historical identity that Texas maintains in 2026.