In the Texas Nationalist Movement, we refer to those committed to the cause of Texas independence as “Texians,” and that is by design. This distinction was established when we founded TNM in 2005, not as a mere rebranding, but as a way to honor the legacy of the original Texians who fought for the independence of the Republic of Texas in the 1830s. Today, it also serves a deeper purpose — to set apart those Texans who are fully committed to the idea of an independent Texas from those who, while proud to be Texans, haven’t yet embraced the need for full sovereignty.

The term “Texian” was used historically to describe the residents of Texas when it was a part of Mexico and later the independent Republic of Texas. These were the men and women who, like Stephen F. Austin, Sam Houston, and William B. Travis, saw the Republic of Texas as a sovereign nation, distinct from both Mexico and the United States. When Texas was annexed into the Union in 1845, the term “Texian” fell out of common use and was replaced by “Texan,” which is what most people in Texas proudly call themselves today.

But as we looked to build the Texas Nationalist Movement, it became clear that we needed a way to separate identity from commitment. Simply being a Texan is not enough when it comes to the push for independence. After all, we have millions of Texans today who, for one reason or another, are content to remain under the control of the Federal Government. They might love the culture and history of Texas, but they’re not yet ready to make the leap to reclaiming our status as a self-governing, independent nation.

That’s where the term “Texian” comes in. It signifies not just a resident of Texas, but someone who is dedicated to the idea that Texas should once again stand as a sovereign nation, free from the control of Washington, D.C. It’s a conscious choice that reflects a level of commitment beyond the average Texan. To call yourself a Texian today is to align yourself with the values and aspirations of the original Texians — to stand for independence, sovereignty, and self-determination.

Contrary to frequent protestations by our opposition, the term “Texian” was not used exclusively for Anglo settlers in Texas. This misconception is often wielded to discredit our use of the term, but history tells a different story. The Texians of the 1830s included people from all walks of life, regardless of their ethnic background. Both Anglo and Tejano settlers embraced the term as they stood side by side, united by a common goal: the fight for an independent Texas. Figures like Juan Seguín, a prominent Tejano leader, and his comrades exemplify this shared commitment to liberty. The label “Texian” transcended ethnic lines, representing all who sought freedom for Texas from the oppressive grip of Mexico at the time.

We adopted this term deliberately in 2005. The goal wasn’t to create division but rather to elevate those who have embraced the cause of Texas independence to a higher level of engagement. It’s about creating a sense of unity and shared purpose among those who understand that Texas is not just a state — it’s a nation in waiting. And just like the Texians of the 1830s who fought for freedom, today’s Texians are working to reclaim that independence in a modern context.

When someone joins the Texas Nationalist Movement, they aren’t just adding their name to a list or waving a flag — they are making a commitment to the idea that Texas must stand alone, govern itself, and secure its own future. By using “Texian,” we honor that commitment, and we remind ourselves of the legacy we’re carrying forward. It’s a title that must be earned through belief, action, and dedication to the cause of Texas independence.

So, while every Texan has the potential to become a Texian, not every Texan has taken that step. But once you’ve crossed that line, there’s no going back — you’re a Texian, in spirit and in action, ready to fight for the future of an independent Texas.