Arizona

Definition

Arizona is a state located in the southwestern region of the United States, known for its diverse geography that includes deserts, mountains, and canyons. It was one of the territories acquired following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which significantly altered the landscape and governance of the region after the Mexican-American War.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arizona became the 48th state of the United States on February 14, 1912, making it the last contiguous state to join the Union.
2. The landscape of Arizona is marked by significant natural features, including the Grand Canyon, which is a major tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, Arizona was initially part of the New Mexico Territory until it was separated as its own territory in 1863.
4. The state's indigenous populations, including various Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Hopi, have rich cultural histories that predate European settlement.
5. The discovery of copper and other minerals led to a mining boom in Arizona during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, significantly influencing its economic development.

Review Questions

• How did the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo impact Arizona's status and development after its ratification?
  • The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was pivotal in shaping Arizona's future as it transitioned from Mexican territory to American governance. Following its ratification in 1848, Arizona became part of the New Mexico Territory before being established as its own territory in 1863. This shift allowed for American laws, infrastructure development, and settlement patterns to take root, laying the groundwork for its eventual statehood.
• Discuss the significance of Arizona's geography in relation to its economic development following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
  • Arizona's diverse geography has played a crucial role in its economic development since becoming part of the United States. The state's natural resources, especially minerals like copper, drove significant mining operations which bolstered local economies in the late 19th century. Additionally, its arid climate facilitated agriculture through irrigation projects that transformed farming practices in a previously harsh environment.
• Evaluate how Arizona's cultural landscape has been influenced by both its indigenous populations and post-Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo settlement patterns.
  • The cultural landscape of Arizona reflects a complex interplay between its indigenous communities and settlers following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Indigenous tribes such as the Navajo and Hopi contribute rich traditions and histories that are integral to Arizona’s identity. In contrast, settlers brought new cultural practices and demographics that reshaped social dynamics. This dual influence has created a unique blend of heritage that enriches Arizona’s cultural fabric today.

Related terms

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo: An 1848 treaty that ended the Mexican-American War and resulted in Mexico ceding a large portion of its northern territories, including present-day Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Colorado and New Mexico to the U.S.

Mexican-American War: A conflict between the United States and Mexico from 1846 to 1848, primarily over territorial disputes following the annexation of Texas by the U.S.

Gadsden Purchase: An 1854 agreement in which the United States purchased a strip of land from Mexico (now part of southern Arizona and New Mexico) to facilitate a southern transcontinental railroad route.