Chapter 4. Summary of Spanish, Mexican, and early American exploration in the Borderlands

Abstract

The Hispanic period of Arizona and New Mexico spans roughly 320 years beginning in the mid-16th century with the arrival of Spanish explorers and culminating with the ratification of the Gadsden Purchase in June 1854. This paper provides an overview of exploration, settlement and land use within and adjacent to the Borderlands during this time. From a review of historic documents, I will provide a general history and present information on Borderland ecology. The earliest descriptions of the environment are often brief and anecdotal, but of sufficient detail, in some instances, to permit comparison and contrast with present landscapes.

Parent Publication

• Prehistory and early history of the Malpai Borderlands: Archaeological synthesis and recommendations

Citation

Madsen, John H. 2006. Chapter 4. Summary of Spanish, Mexican, and early American exploration in the Borderlands. In: Fish, Paul R.; Fish, Suzanne K.; Madsen, John H. 2006. Prehistory and early history of the Malpai Borderlands: Archaeological synthesis and recommendations. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-176. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 45-54