By Ashlee Simmons
New
Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, is home to almost 2 million people. The state is snuggled between Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Texas and a tiny tip of Oklahoma, with Mexico as its southern neighbor. Santa Fe began as a dusty, Spanish outpost and is now the state capital. New Mexico boasts a healthy share of tourism, and residents are proud to show off their state.
History
New Mexico became America's 47th state on January 6, 1912. The name derives from the state's ties to Mexican leadership in the 19th century.
Fun Fact
New Mexico's state flag is the result of a 1920 competition. Dr. Harry Mera's winning design was inspired by the Zia symbol.
Size
New Mexico is the fifth-largest U.S. state, with more than 121,593 square miles within its borders.
Features
Stunning geology formed Carlsbad Caverns National Park and White Sands National Monument. Indigenous people created Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monuments and Inscription Rock at El Morro National Monument.
Famous Ties
Celebrities Demi Moore, Neil Patrick Harris and John Denver are from New Mexico. But that's not all--outlaw Billy the Kid (William Bonney) also called the state home.
Features
Foodies love New Mexico's Hatch chiles, pistachios and blue corn. The region is becoming well-known for its vineyards and wine, too.
Resources
About the Author:
Ashlee Simmons has written professionally for more than 10 years. Her writing focus is travel, equestrian and health and medical articles, but she enjoys writing human interest stories as well. Simmons graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a liberal arts degree.
