"[3] In the nineteenth century, this area was settled primarily by European-American planters and farmers, many of whom brought enslaved African Americans with them or purchased others to work as laborers on the cotton plantations they developed.

Cotton was most important, but farmers also cultivated other commodity crops before the American Civil War.

Eastern Texas was the region of the state with the highest number and proportion of slaves.

In the 21st century, African Americans comprise a significant minority in the county.

On July 19, 1971, a groundbreaking occurred for a replacement courthouse, scheduled to open in 1972.

25.80% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.20% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

The 2000 election was the last time the county voted in favor of a Democratic presidential nominee.