New Mexico flourished during the time of Western Expansion due to its strategically important location for trade and transportation. The Santa Fe Trail connected the region to markets in the east, enabling goods to flow in and out of New Mexico. The discovery of silver and copper deposits also attracted miners and investors, stimulating economic growth. Additionally, the region's diverse cultural heritage, including Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences, contributed to a rich and vibrant society that played a vital role in the development of the American West.
