With its stunning scenery and rich history, it’s no wonder New Mexico is called the “Land of Enchantment”. From rugged mountains and colorful cliffs to endless skies and dramatic sunsets, there is plenty to marvel at in New Mexico. The state’s rich history is intrinsically bound with these iconic landscapes, including countless battles over several centuries. Let’s dive in and discover the seven most historic battlefields in New Mexico!
7. The “Long Walk of the Navajo” (1864-1866)
Some of the most historic battlefields in New Mexico come from the Navajo Wars. Following the Mexican-American War, the United States and the Navajo engaged in a multitude of conflicts, from cultural clashes and land disputes to ongoing raids on both sides. The conflicts continued until 1863 when Colonel Kit Carson led the U.S. Military to subdue the Navajo and Mescelaro Apache peoples. They chased the Navajo for several months, burned their hogans and crops, and took their livestock, leaving the people without food or shelter during the winter. By 1866, several Navajo groups and their leaders were forced on what is now called the “ Long Walk ”, traveling several miles from their homes to the reservation at Fort Sumner in New Mexico.