Think, Wonder, & Teach: Happy 100th Birthday, Arizona!

In 1853, the land that would eventually become Arizona was part of the Gadsden Purchase from Mexico. On February 14, 1862, Arizona was considered a separate territory from New Mexico for the first time as they joined the Confederates in the Civil War. This was the first time Arizona had its own name and it claimed half of the New Mexico territory. On February 14, 1912, Arizona became the last of the continuous 48 states to join the nation... it is also the 48th state!

Arizona is a melting pot of Hispanic and Native American influences. It is a strange land with a mixture of deserts, red rocks, and deep green forests. It is home of the Grand Canyon. It has extreme temperatures that can reach to below zero in Northern Arizona in the winter and then heat up to 120 degrees in the desert during the hottest parts of the summer. The sun shines about 300 days out of the year; rain in the desert is minimal. However, we have snow in the Northern areas of the state. The area is free primarily from natural disasters with the exception of micro-bursts and ha-boobs. It is a destination for tourists and winter visitors. There are days when we forget the Wild West is dead and try to resurrect it. Sadly we are ranked 49 in education... we make the rest of the states look good!

Today as we celebration Valentine's day... we will also be celebrating the birthday of Arizona. We will be focusing on what makes Arizona unique and special.

State Flower: Saguaro Cactus Blossom

State Tree: Paloverde Tree

State Bird: Cactus Wren

State Seal

State Motto

We will be writing about our favorite places and memories. The vast variety of landscapes and adventures to be had are wide. How will we ever be able to choose a favorite? What is yours?