* Serving as the first and third president of the Republic of Texas. Houston was a popular and effective leader who helped to establish Texas as a stable and prosperous nation.
* Representing Texas in the United States Senate. Houston was a strong advocate for Texas' interests in the Senate and helped to ensure that the state was admitted to the Union in 1845.
* Serving as Governor of Texas. Houston was elected governor of Texas three times (1859-1861, 1861-1863, and 1863-1865). He was a strong leader during the Civil War and helped to keep Texas in the Union.