Beneath the vast, unyielding Texas sky lies a story of grit, gushers, and grandeur—a tale of how oil, cattle, and the audacious dreams of larger-than-life figures forged a state unlike any other. Under Texas Skies: Oil, Ranches, and Dreams that Shaped a State takes readers on a sweeping journey through Texas history, from the explosive birth of the modern petroleum industry at Spindletop to the fracking boom and beyond.
This is not just a chronicle of black gold; it’s a vibrant tapestry of ranches sprawling across millions of acres, visionary philanthropists building cities from scratch, and a cowboy culture that defied stereotypes to fuel a global economic titan. With 22 meticulously researched chapters, Under Texas Skies uncovers the improbable friendships, family dynasties, and technological leaps that defined Texas.
Discover how oil taxes—starting with a modest 1905 levy—built a state without income tax, funding highways, Neiman Marcus glamour, and a war-winning effort in World War II with pipelines and synthetic rubber. Texas also played a crucial role during World War I, as the nation relied on its oil to power military vehicles and support the war effort.
From the million-acre ranches of Texas to the coastal wells rising from Gulf waves, this book captures the raw energy of a land where dreams were as big as the horizon.
| Format |
Häftad |
| Omfång |
424 sidor |
| Språk |
Engelska |
| Förlag |
State House Press / McWhiney Foundation Press |
| Utgivningsdatum |
2026-02-20 |
| ISBN |
9781649670311 |
