Final answer:
Texas was an independent nation for three weeks in 1846 and is now a state in the United States.
Step-by-step explanation:
Texas was an independent nation for all of three weeks in 1846.
The Republic of Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836. However, due to border disputes with Mexico and difficulties in finding stability as a nation, Texas eventually sought annexation into the United States. On December 29, 1845, Texas was officially admitted as the 28th state of the United States.
The word 'republic' on the state's flag refers to its former status as an independent republic.