1. The Pueblo Revolt of 1680: On June 23, 1680, Native American Pueblo people staged a successful rebellion against Spanish colonizers in what is now New Mexico. Led by Popé, a Tewa religious leader, the Pueblo Revolt resulted in the expulsion of Spanish colonizers from the region and a 12-year period of Pueblo independence.
2. Route 66 Opens: On June 23, 1926, the iconic Route 66 was officially established, connecting Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. The portion of the route that passes through New Mexico served as a major artery for travelers and commerce for many years, and is now a popular tourist destination.
3. Edith Warner and Los Alamos: On June 23, 1943, a woman named Edith Warner began working as a cook at the Los Alamos Ranch School, located in the northern part of New Mexico. Little did she know, the school was secretly being used to develop the first atomic bomb. Despite strict security measures, Warner developed close relationships with several of the scientists involved in the project and provided them with emotional support during what was an incredibly stressful time.
4. The La Bajada Hill Climb: Since 1952, a grueling annual car race has been held on June 23 that sees drivers attempt to navigate the steep and winding La Bajada Hill on Highway 16 between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. The race has a long and storied history in New Mexico, attracting both local and international participants.
5. UFO Sighting in Roswell: On June 23, 1947, rancher Mac Brazel discovered unusual debris scattered across his property near Roswell, New Mexico. The event would go on to become one of the most infamous UFO sightings in history, with many people claiming that the debris was from an extraterrestrial spacecraft that had crashed on Earth. Despite several official investigations, the true nature of the Roswell incident remains a subject of debate and speculation to this day.
5 Fun Facts About June 23 In New Mexico History
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