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.

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Episode Transcript

Man of Enchantment (00:08):
Bienvenidos.
This is Today in New MexicoHistory, a project of the
Enchantment Chronicles, january6, 1912.
New Mexico was admitted as the47th state of the United States
on January 6, 1912.
President William Howard Taftsigned the proclamation
declaring New Mexico a stateafter both houses of Congress

(00:31):
approved its constitution.
For over 60 years, new Mexicohad spent trying to achieve
statehood.
It first applied for statehoodin 1850 when it drafted its
first state constitution which,by the way, outlawed slavery,
which was not ratified byCongress.
New Mexico's bid for statehoodhad always been rejected, mainly

(00:52):
due to its majority Hispanicpopulation, the Spanish uage and
the Catholic religion.
There were concerns that it wasnot American enough.
Before its constitution in 1911, new Mexico had to make some
concessions in order to achievestatehood, like ensuring
teachers spoke English andtaught in English and that all

(01:13):
state businesses would beconducted in English.
Importantly, native Americanswere not granted citizenship by
New Mexico during this time.
That right came later throughthe Indian Citizenship Act of
1924, under President CalvinCoolidge's presidency.
Today, new Mexico is known asthe Land of Enchantment,

(01:34):
although its first motto was theSunshine State.
New Mexico's capital is SantaFe, which is one of the oldest,
continuously inhabited cities inthe United States.
Thank you, come back next timefor Today in New Mexico History.