Texas is known for producing many impressive figures, including actors, athletes, and politicians. But have you ever wondered how many U.S. presidents were born in the Lone Star State? You might be surprised to learn the answer isn’t as high as you’d think. Let’s dive into the story of Texas’ connection to the U.S. presidency.
Texas Presidents: The Official Ones
Out of the fifty states, only 21 have given birth to U.S. presidents. However, Texas has produced only two official presidents by birth.
The first Texan president was Lyndon B. Johnson. Born in Central, Texas, Johnson became the 36th president of the United States. He served from 1963 to 1969, stepping into the role after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Before becoming president, Johnson served as vice president under Kennedy.
The second official Texan president was Dwight D. Eisenhower. Although born in Denison, Texas, Eisenhower spent much of his childhood in Abilene, Kansas. He was the 34th president, serving from 1953 to 1961. Despite his Kansas upbringing, Eisenhower is often counted among the Texan presidents because of his birthplace.
The Unofficial Texans: The Bush Family
Texas also has connections to two other U.S. presidents who were not born in the state but are considered Texans due to their long ties to the state.
George H. W. Bush, the 41st president, was born in Milton, Massachusetts. However, he spent a large part of his life in Texas, where he worked in the oil industry and became involved in local politics. Bush served as president from 1989 to 1993.
George W. Bush, his son, was born in New Hope, Connecticut. But like his father, George W. Bush grew up in Midland, Texas, and later returned to work in the Texas oil industry. Before becoming president, he served as Texas governor. He became the 43rd president, serving from 2001 to 2009.