Новое Мексико внесло вклад в Американскую революцию через финансовые пожертвования и поставки продовольствия

How New Mexico played a role in the American Revolution Spain joined the American Revolution in 1779 under King Carlos III, requiring citizens, including those in New Mexico, to contribute funds and resources to support the war effort against Great Britain. "The king decided a year afterwards to have everybody contribute to the war. So he required every citizen to pay two pesos. Called them donativos," said Constance Joy with the Daughters of the American Revolution. These donations were collected from Spanish citizens, including soldiers stationed in New Mexico. "I think it was 3,777, something like that, pesos, which today is $208,000, just from New Mexico alone," said Joy. At the time, the American colonies lacked a standing army and relied heavily on external support. "We were colonies. We weren't the United States of America yet. We didn't have a standing army. So, any help that the colonies could get was vital," said Karen Cox. The funds were used to purchase weapons, uniforms, and other supplies for the Continental Army. "These donativos, and they were used to buy guns and all kinds of weaponry, soldiers' uniforms. The American soldiers' uniforms, as a matter of fact, were paid for with some Spanish wool," said Joy. Spain also sent cattle from Texas to feed the Continental Army. For some New Mexicans, this history is deeply personal. "It was unbelievable for me," said Cox. Cox discovered her ancestor, Juan Cristobal Montes Vigil, was a presidio cavalryman who helped collect the donativos during the revolution. "I heard stories about how we had been in service through the military, our family members, you know, all the wars and stuff, even back to Nueva España and the early days of the Conquistadors," Cox said. "And that was a lot of work, because without having them, the people who collected the soldiers' donations, those never would have made it to buy weaponry that was funding the American Revolution," she added. The Daughters of the American Revolution are now helping New Mexicans trace their family histories and uncover their ancestors' roles in the revolution. "Our mission is education, patriotism, and historical preservation," said Joy. "If I have that ancestry, there are thousands and thousands of other people that do as well. And I think it's really important to acknowledge that," Cox said. Recognizing New Mexico's contributions to the revolution highlights its significance in shaping the United States. "Without all of the contributions and help, we, I don't think we would be the United States," said Cox.