Houston is the most populous city in the state of Texas and the fourth most populous city in the United States. Here's an overview:
Founded on August 30, 1836, by Augustus Chapman Allen and John Kirby Allen, Houston was named after Sam Houston, the general at the Battle of San Jacinto, who was elected as the first and third president of the Republic of Texas. The city's strategic location on the Buffalo Bayou made it a natural port, leading to its rapid growth as a commercial and shipping hub.
Houston is located in Southeast Texas, near the Gulf of Mexico. It spans over 600 square miles, making it one of the largest cities in the U.S. by area. The city's landscape is mostly flat with few natural landmarks, but it includes bayous and parks like the Hermann Park and Memorial Park.
Known as the "Energy Capital of the World," Houston is the headquarters for numerous energy companies, including ExxonMobil, Chevron, and BP. The city's economy is diverse, with significant sectors in healthcare, medical research, aeronautics, and transportation. The Port of Houston is one of the largest in the U.S., contributing significantly to the city's economy.
Houston has a comprehensive transportation system:
The city is home to several prestigious educational institutions like Rice University and University of Houston, alongside the Texas Medical Center, which is the largest medical complex in the world.