What was the total amount of land claimed by Texas when they met in Columbia in December 1836 after gaining independence?

The total amount of land claimed by Texas when they convened in Columbia in December 1836 after securing independence was approximately 216 million acres. This figure reflects the vast territory that was claimed by the Republic of Texas, which included not only the land that is modern-day Texas but also parts of what are now New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming.

The significance of this claim is rooted in the history of Texas as it sought to establish itself as an independent entity following its separation from Mexico. The immense size of the territory underscores both the ambitions of the early Texas settlers and the complexities of land management and jurisdictional claims that would unfold in the years to follow.

Understanding this context is critical, as it sets the stage for later regulatory developments, including land surveys and claims processes that would be crucial for land ownership and legal matters in the region. This historical backdrop is foundational knowledge for anyone studying land surveying and the legal aspects tied to land in Texas.