1. Earth Day was first celebrated in New Mexico in 1970, marking the start of a global movement to address environmental issues.

2. In 1598, Juan de Oñate led the first group of Spanish colonizers into what is now New Mexico, establishing the first permanent settlement in the state.

3. On April 22, 1889, the Land Run of 1889 opened up the Unassigned Lands in Oklahoma Territory for settlement, drawing many settlers from New Mexico.

4. In 1945, scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer oversaw the first successful test of the atomic bomb at the Trinity Site in southern New Mexico, a pivotal moment in world history.

5. On April 22, 1996, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science opened in Albuquerque, showcasing the rich cultural and natural heritage of the state.