Jesus de la Teja was sworn in on Tuesday.

The duties of the state historian include enhancing the knowledge of Texans regarding Texas history and heritage.

The new State Historian says he got to this point thanks to a very famous author.

"I wound up working for James Michener as a research assistant and that's what got me totally hooked on Texas history," he said.

In March, de la Teja also assumed the role of President of the Texas State Historical Association.