Today in New Mexico History - January 6, 1912

Unlock the secrets of how a diverse territory blossomed into the 47th state of the United States. As we celebrate New Mexico's rich history, you'll uncover the harrowing challenges and cultural triumphs that led to the signing of its statehood by President William Howard Taft on January 6, 1912. With a past steeped in the fight against slavery, and a commitment to overcome linguistic and religious barriers, New Mexico's journey to statehood is a story of resilience and transformation. Discover how this unique blend of cultures navigated the path to acceptance within the union, ultimately shaping the vibrant identity of the Land of Enchantment.

Transcript

Man of Enchantment: 0:08

Bienvenidos. This is Today in New Mexico History, a project of the Enchantment Chronicles, january 6, 1912. New Mexico was admitted as the 47th state of the United States on January 6, 1912. President William Howard Taft signed the proclamation declaring New Mexico a state after both houses of Congress approved its constitution. For over 60 years, new Mexico had spent trying to achieve statehood. It first applied for statehood in 1850 when it drafted its first state constitution which, by the way, outlawed slavery, which was not ratified by Congress.

Man of Enchantment: 0:49

New Mexico's bid for statehood had always been rejected, mainly due to its majority Hispanic population, the Spanish uage and the Catholic religion. There were concerns that it was not American enough. Before its constitution in 1911, new Mexico had to make some concessions in order to achieve statehood, like ensuring teachers spoke English and taught in English and that all state businesses would be conducted in English. Importantly, native Americans were not granted citizenship by New Mexico during this time. That right came later through the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924, under President Calvin Coolidge's presidency. Today, new Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment, although its first motto was the Sunshine State. New Mexico's capital is Santa Fe, which is one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the United States. Thank you, come back next time for Today in New Mexico History.