Not Many People Know That New Mexico Was The First To Do These 10 Things

Nestled in the heart of the American Southwest, New Mexico boasts a rich history filled with pioneering achievements that have left an indelible mark on the nation. From groundbreaking technological advancements to cultural milestones, the Land of Enchantment has been a trailblazer in many fields. In this blog post, we’ll delve into 10 remarkable things that set New Mexico apart as a state that often led the way, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation and cultural significance.

1. Build the Atomic Bomb

Credit :https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/the-first-atomic-bomb-test-is-successfully-exploded

New Mexico was the site of the Manhattan Project, where the first atomic bomb was developed and tested in 1945 at the Trinity Site near Alamogordo. While a significant scientific achievement, the destructive power of nuclear weapons remains controversial.

2. Invent the Water Disrupter

The water disrupter, a device that shoots a high-pressure “blade” of water to detonate roadside bombs, was invented in New Mexico. It was used successfully by the U.S. Army in Afghanistan to reduce casualties from IEDs.

3. Sell the First Personal Computer

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altair_8800

The MITS Altair 8800, considered the world’s first personal computer, went on sale in 1975 after being developed in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This helped launch the personal computing revolution.

4. Develop the Modern Cleanroom

The laminar-flow cleanroom, the standard design used in manufacturing and scientific research requiring sterile environments, was invented at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico.

5. Invent the Nicotine Patch

The nicotine patch, a smoking cessation aid that delivers nicotine through the skin, was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Jed Rose at the University of New Mexico. It has helped millions quit smoking.

6. Coin the Term “Breakfast Burrito”

Credit: https://www.mexicanplease.com/vegetarian-breakfast-burritos/

The popular breakfast dish consisting of a flour tortilla wrapped around eggs, potatoes, cheese and meat was dubbed the “breakfast burrito” in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the 1970s. It has since become a widespread menu item.

7. Put Green Chile on a Cheeseburger

Credit: https://www.landolakesfoodservice.com/recipes/green-chile-queso-jack-burger

The green chile cheeseburger, a hamburger topped with cheese and spicy New Mexican green chile peppers, was first served at the Owl Bar in San Antonio, New Mexico in the 1940s. It’s now a signature New Mexican dish.

8. Establish the First Scholarly Historical Society in the American West

The Historical Society of New Mexico, founded in 1859, was likely the first scholarly historical association formed in the western United States. It helped preserve New Mexico’s rich history.

9. Found the First Catholic Diocese in the Southwest

The Diocese of Santa Fe was established in 1850, with Jean-Baptiste Lamy as the first bishop. Under Lamy, the diocese built 45 new churches and numerous schools across New Mexico.

10. Settle the Oldest Capital City in the U.S.

Santa Fe was founded around 1607 as the capital of Spanish New Mexico, making it the oldest state capital in the United States. The Palace of the Governors, built in 1610, is the country’s oldest continuously used public building.

New Mexico has a long history of innovation, scholarly pursuits, and distinctive cuisine that have left their mark on the state and the nation. From ancient Puebloan settlements to the atomic age, New Mexico has often been at the forefront of significant historical developments and achievements.