How Arizona Became a State

Arizona is a beautiful and diverse state located in the southwestern United States. It is known for its desert climate, majestic mountains, and vibrant culture. But how did Arizona become a state? This article will explore the history of Arizona and how it became a state in 1912. We will look at the events leading up to the statehood of Arizona, the people who were involved, and the impact it had on the region. We will also discuss the challenges and successes that Arizona has faced since becoming a state. Finally, we will examine the current state of Arizona and how it has evolved since its inception.

Pre-Statehood

Pre-European Settlement

Before the arrival of Europeans, the area now known as Arizona was home to a variety of indigenous tribes, including the Apache, Navajo, and Hopi. These tribes had been living in the area for centuries, and had developed complex cultures and societies. The tribes were largely nomadic, relying on hunting and gathering to sustain themselves, and living in small, scattered settlements. They had a deep spiritual connection to the land, and believed that it was their responsibility to protect it.

Spanish Exploration

The first Europeans to arrive in the area were Spanish explorers, who arrived in the 16th century. The Spanish were interested in the area for its potential for colonization and exploitation of resources. They established a number of missions in the area, and began to convert the indigenous tribes to Christianity. The Spanish also brought with them new technologies, such as horses and guns, which allowed them to gain control of the area.

Mexican Rule

In 1821, Mexico gained its independence from Spain, and the area now known as Arizona became part of the Mexican state of Sonora. The Mexican government encouraged settlement of the area, and many Mexicans and Americans began to move into the region. The Mexican government also encouraged the development of mining, ranching, and farming in the area, which helped to spur economic growth. However, the Mexican government was also oppressive, and the indigenous tribes were often mistreated and exploited. In 1848, the Mexican-American War ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ceded the area to the United States.

The Gadsden Purchase

Background

The Gadsden Purchase was a treaty between the United States and Mexico in 1853. It was negotiated by James Gadsden, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, and was ratified by President Franklin Pierce. The treaty was intended to settle a border dispute between the two countries, and it also gave the United States an additional 29,670 square miles of land in the southwest. This land included parts of what is now Arizona, New Mexico, and California.

Significance

The Gadsden Purchase was an important event in the history of Arizona. It gave the United States control of the area that would eventually become Arizona, and it allowed the United States to expand its territory. The Gadsden Purchase also provided the United States with access to the important port of San Diego, which was a major factor in the development of the West Coast. Additionally, the Gadsden Purchase provided the United States with a strategic advantage in the region, as it allowed the United States to control the area between the Rio Grande and the Colorado River. This control was important for the security of the United States, as it allowed the United States to protect its interests in the region. Finally, the Gadsden Purchase allowed the United States to gain access to valuable resources, such as gold, silver, and copper, which were important for the development of the West.

Statehood

Early Attempts

Arizona's journey to statehood began in 1863 when the Arizona Organic Act was passed. This act created the Arizona Territory, which included the area that is now Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Colorado and Utah. The Arizona Organic Act also established a territorial government and allowed the people of Arizona to elect a delegate to the US Congress. However, the delegate was not allowed to vote on legislation. The Arizona Territory was initially part of the New Mexico Territory, but in 1864, it was separated and given its own territorial government.

Despite the Arizona Organic Act, the Arizona Territory was not granted statehood for many years. In 1866, a bill was introduced in Congress to make Arizona a state, but it failed to pass. In 1867, another bill was introduced, but it was also unsuccessful. In 1868, a third bill was introduced, but it was also rejected.

Final Passage

In 1877, Congress finally passed a bill granting Arizona statehood. The bill was signed into law by President Rutherford B. Hayes, and Arizona officially became the 48th state in the Union on February 14, 1912.

The new state of Arizona adopted a constitution and elected its first governor, George W.P. Hunt. The state also established a legislature and a judicial system. In addition, Arizona was given two US Senators and one Representative in the US House of Representatives.

Arizona's statehood was a major milestone for the people of the Arizona Territory. After years of trying to gain statehood, the people of Arizona finally had the same rights and privileges as the other states in the Union. They were now able to participate in the political process and have a say in the laws that governed them.

Arizona's statehood also had a major impact on the economy of the state. With statehood, Arizona was able to attract more businesses and industries, which led to an increase in jobs and economic growth. In addition, statehood allowed Arizona to receive federal funding for infrastructure projects, such as roads and bridges, which helped to further develop the state.

Today, Arizona is a thriving state with a vibrant economy and a rich cultural heritage. The state has come a long way since its early attempts at statehood, and it continues to grow and prosper.

Conclusion

Arizona's statehood in 1912 had a lasting impact on the state and its people. It allowed Arizona to have a voice in the United States government, and to have a say in the decisions that would shape the future of the state. Arizona was able to develop its own unique identity and culture, while still being part of the larger United States. Today, Arizona is a vibrant and diverse state, with a rich history and culture. It is home to a variety of people, cultures, and industries, and is a great place to live and work. Arizona is a state that has been shaped by its past, and is now ready to take on the future.