New Mexico

New Mexico is a state in the southwestern region of the United States. It became the 47th state admitted to the Union on January 6, 1912 and is located between Texas and Arizona to its east, Colorado to its north, Oklahoma to its northeast corner and Mexico’s Chihuahua State across the southern border. The capital city of New Mexico is Santa Fe; other cities include Albuquerque with over 500,000 inhabitants and Las Cruces with around 100,000 people.

The first European settlement in what was later called New Mexico was established by Juan de Oñate y Salazar at San Gabriel del Yungue (now Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo) near present-day Española in 1598 as part of Spain’s colonization efforts throughout North America. After Mexican independence from Spain in 1821, this area became known as Nuevo México Province before it was conquered by U.S forces during their war against Mexico (1846–48).

The terrain within New Mexico consists mostly desert plains although there are several mountain ranges including Sangre de Cristo Mountains which run along northern parts of Rio Grande valley while others such as Sandia Crest rise up above Albuquerque skyline offering stunning views for visitors who take time explore outdoorsy side this beautiful landlocked state has offer them . In addition , vast tracts high plateau grasslands can be found eastern half making ideal grazing grounds livestock reared here or even home some wild species like pronghorn antelope prairie dogs .
Northern parts contain large forests made pine spruce fir juniper trees provide shade shelter wildlife thriving among lush vegetation that grow abundantly due mild climate winters short cool summers providing much needed respite hot dryer days down south bordering regions where temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius during summer months !

There are many cultural attractions for tourists visiting new mexico too , most notably historic sites associated Native American tribes living pre-colonization times – pueblos like Acoma Taos Nambe Isleta feature adobe dwellings still standing proud today showcasing ancient architecture art forms practiced hundreds years ago yet remain relevant culturally important aspects life these communities today! Not only have they been designated World Heritage Sites UNESCO but also serve educational purpose those interested learning more about culture origins peoples living here long before europeans set foot upon these lands ….

Finally , one cannot talk about without mentioning cuisine – an amalgamation culinary influences both old world newer ingredients create unique flavors sure tantalize taste buds anyone lucky enough sample offerings local restaurants cafes bars! From traditional dishes green chile stew enchiladas sopapillas tacos burritos all way gourmet creations regional delicacies pleasingly varied selection deliciousness awaits every visitor willing pay homage gastronomical delights offered ‘land enchantment’!.