Brief History of the New Mexico State Flag

The flag of the state of New Mexico was adopted in 1925. The colors of the flag reflect the state’s Native American and Spanish heritage. The sun symbol on the flag is derived from an ancient Native American Pueblo Peoples pottery design. There are a total of 19 different flags that have flown over New Mexico. Here is a brief history of each one.

The first flag flown over New Mexico was that of Spain in 1540. This flag was red and gold with a symbolism that is very apparent in Spanish heraldry. The next flag was that of the Kingdom of Great Britain, which flew over the area from 1680 to 1692. After that, it was back to Spain until 1821 when Mexico won its independence. The Mexican flag at that time was green, white, and red vertical stripes with an emblem in the center.

In 1846, the United States took control of New Mexico after winning the Mexican-American War. At first, the area was governed as part of the Territory of New Mexico and flew the American Flag. In 1912, New Mexico became a state and adopted its first state flag. The current flag was adopted in 1925 and has remained unchanged since then.

The current New Mexico state flag has been unchanged since 1925. It features vibrant colors that represent the state’s Native American and Spanish heritage. The sun symbol on the flag also has roots in ancient Pueblo Peoples pottery design. With 19 different flags having flown over New Mexico throughout its history, the current flag is a reflection of the diverse cultures that have called this state home.