The 2000 census data showed that Texas's population was 20,851,820, or about 7 percent of the total U.S. population. Only California has more people than Texas. The census also showed that the four most populous counties in Texas were Harris, Dallas, Tarrant, and Bexar Counties. There is a significant Hispanic population in all the major cities of Texas. The Texas population is younger than is the overall U.S. population.

Texas Arts Texas's ethnic diversity has created a rich literary and artistic heritage. Much of Texas folklore blends fact and fiction in recounting the history of Texas. Famous Texas writers include Larry McMurtry, Katherine Anne Porter, Fred Gibson, and O. Henry, who lived in Texas in the late 1800s.

The music of Texas is the creation of many cultures. African Americans have contributed much to the music of the state, especially with spirituals and blues. Scott Joplin, born the son of a former enslaved person in Cave Springs near Linden, was the "father of ragtime." Some of Texas's more familiar ballads and folk songs are of Mexican heritage. Texans have made important contributions to rock music as well.

Throughout history, talented artists painted Texas scenes. H.A. McArdle, William H. Huddle, Robert and Julian Onderdonk, and Porfirio Salinas are but a few of these famous Texan artists.

Celebrations Many celebrations and festivals provide recreation, bring communities together, and encourage the appreciation of other cultures. These celebrations include Cinco de Mayo, Diez y Seis de Septiembre, Juneteenth, and Oktoberfest. A grand ethnic celebration is held on the grounds of the Institute of Texan Cultures in San Antonio each summer. In addition, many historical reenactments provide a glimpse into the events that made Texas what it is today.