New+Mexico

=New Mexico=



===New Mexico was the Spanish name for the territory north and west of the Rio Grande. New Mexico was admitted to the Union as the 47th state in 1912. New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment because of its scenic beauty and rich history. In 1540, the Spanish conquistador Coronado trekked through the area known today as New Mexico in search of the fabled seven cities of gold. The state has a large Hispanic population, as New Mexico was under Spanish control from the 16th century until about 1846. The influence of the Apache Indians who live there is evident in the artwork and culture. The Pueblo Indian presence is also very apparent, most visibly in the tribe's buildings. Part of the "Old West", New Mexico was a place known for cowboys and cattle drives. The landscape ranges from rose-colored deserts to snow-capped mountains. Lovers of history can visit Indian ruins, frontier forts and Spanish missions. Indian ceremonies, Spanish fiestas and local rodeos are among the most interesting events for tourists.===

===The yellow field and red symbol colors are the colors of Spain. First brought to New Mexico by Spanish explorers in 1540. On New Mexico's flag we see a red sun with rays streching out from it. There are four groups of rays with four rays in each group. This is an ancient sun symbol of a Native American people called the Zia. The Zia believed that the giver of all good gave them gifts in groups of four. These gifts are: The four directions - north, east, south and west. The four seasons - spring, summer, fall and winter. The day - sunrise, noon, evening and night. Life itself - childhood, youth, middle years and old age.===

Page Created by BM