Many are familiar with the “Lone Star State” moniker, yet the origins of the name “Texas” itself often spark curiosity. Unraveling this linguistic history reveals a story deeply rooted in indigenous languages and early European encounters, connecting the state’s very identity to a concept of camaraderie.
The Caddo People and Their Word
The name “Texas” originates from the Caddo language, from the Caddo word `táyshaʼ` or `techas`, meaning “friends” or “allies.” The Caddo used this term not only to refer to themselves but also to other friendly tribal groups in the region, signifying a network of cooperative relationships. They also used it as a greeting, meaning “Hello, friend.”
The Caddo Confederacy, composed of several Caddoan-speaking tribes, inhabited a significant portion of what is now East Texas. Their established presence and the meaning embedded in `táyshaʼ` laid the groundwork for the future naming of the expansive territory.
Spanish Exploration and Naming
Spanish explorers encountered the Caddo people and adopted their term. Friar Damián Massanet, for instance, in his correspondence from 1689, recorded the Caddo word as “Tejas” after being greeted with “teycha,” meaning “friend.” This Spanish spelling became the common European designation for the region and its inhabitants.
Alonso de León, a Spanish explorer and governor, along with Massanet, played a role in establishing the first Spanish mission in East Texas. Subsequently, Domingo Terán de los Ríos was appointed as the first governor of the Spanish province of Coahuila y Texas in 1691. The King of Spain officially began referring to these lands, encompassing the territory above the Rio Grande, as the “Province of the Tejas.” This application of the Caddo-derived name to the entire vast region solidified its use in official European records.
From Tejas to Texas
The transition from the Spanish “Tejas” to the modern English “Texas” occurred gradually, influenced by the arrival of English-speaking settlers. Over time, the orthography evolved, with the Spanish letter “j” eventually being replaced by “x” in certain words, leading to the anglicized spelling. This shift cemented the name as more English speakers moved into the area.
The name “Texas” became firmly established through the period of the Republic of Texas and was formalized with its statehood in 1845. The enduring legacy of friendship and alliance, originally conveyed by the Caddo people, is still recognized today. The state motto, “Friendship,” directly reflects the profound original meaning of the word that ultimately gave Texas its name.