How did American interest in New Mexico begin?

The history of American interest in New Mexico dates back to the early days of the exploration and settlement of North America.

The first recorded European expedition into what is now New Mexico was led by the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in 1540. Coronado was searching for the legendary Seven Cities of Gold when he entered what is now the northern part of the present-day state.

Over the next two decades, Spanish explorers and settlers would establish a number of missions and settlements in the area, including Santa Fe, which was founded in 1610 and served as the capital of the Spanish colony of New Mexico.

The Spanish held onto New Mexico until the Mexican-American War of 1846-1848, which resulted in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. By the terms of this treaty, Mexico ceded New Mexico to the United States, along with what are now the states of California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming.

The discovery of gold in California in 1848 prompted a gold rush, and many of the gold seekers on their way to California passed through New Mexico, further increasing American interest in the territory.

In 1850, New Mexico was organized as a territory of the United States, with Santa Fe remaining the capital. It remained a territory until 1912, when it became the 47th state of the United States.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, New Mexico continued to be a popular destination for settlers, particularly from the East and Midwest. The region's mild climate, beautiful scenery, and abundant resources attracted both farmers and ranchers, as well as tourists and health-seekers.

Today, New Mexico is home to a diverse population of over 2 million people, and is a popular destination for tourists and retirees alike, drawn to its rich history, cultural traditions, and stunning natural landscapes.