The first European settlers in New Mexico were Spanish colonists, who arrived in 1598. Led by Juan de Oñate, the colonists established Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. Over the next few decades, the Spanish established a number of other settlements in New Mexico, including San Juan Pueblo and Taos Pueblo.
Pueblo Indians
The Pueblo Indians were the first people to live in New Mexico. They arrived in the area around 1000 AD and built a number of large, multi-story pueblos, or apartment buildings. The Pueblo Indians were skilled farmers and grew corn, beans, and squash. They also made pottery and jewelry.
Navajo Indians
The Navajo Indians arrived in New Mexico in the 16th century. They were originally nomadic people, but they eventually settled down in the area and began farming. The Navajo Indians are known for their beautiful weaving, which is often made with wool from their own sheep.
Apache Indians
The Apache Indians arrived in New Mexico in the 17th century. They were also originally nomadic people, but they eventually settled down in the area and began farming. The Apache Indians are known for their fighting skills and were often at war with the Spanish settlers.
Other settlers
In addition to the Spanish, Pueblo, Navajo, and Apache Indians, a number of other groups of people settled in New Mexico over the years. These included Mexican settlers, Anglo settlers, and African American settlers.