1. On April 16, 1881, the Lincoln County War began in New Mexico. This conflict was a feud between two rival factions in Lincoln County, which resulted in the deaths of several prominent figures, including cattle rustlers, lawmen, and businessmen.

2. In 1945, the first atomic bomb was tested at Trinity Site in the desert of New Mexico. The test was a success and led to the development and use of atomic weapons during World War II.

3. April 16, 1986, marked the beginning of a 33-hour standoff between authorities and a group of criminals known as the Sandoval County Courthouse escapees. The incident ended with the death of two of the suspects and the arrest of the remaining three.

4. The New Mexico State Fair was originally held on April 16, 1889, in Albuquerque. The fair continues to be an annual tradition in the state and is known for its livestock exhibits, carnival rides, and entertainment.

5. On April 16, 1965, the first successful landing on the moon was simulated in New Mexico using a Lunar Landing Research Vehicle (LLRV). The LLRV was designed to test the simulation of controlled landings on the moon's surface, and the successful test paved the way for future lunar missions.