New Mexico Historical Biographies is a collection of almost 1,500 biographical sketches drawn on important New Mexicans dating from the 16th to the early 21st century. Subjects include people from all walks of life, connected to each other only by an association with New Mexico. Some of them are well-known to anyone familiar with the Land of Enchantment, while others are somewhat obscure; overlooked by observers of the day and historians in the years since they lived. Some of them had a positive impact on New Mexico-as a Spanish possession, under Mexican rule, and as a part of the United States-while others left a clear black mark. Some contributed to the well-being of their fellow New Mexicans, while others made life miserable. The purpose of the book is to provide those interested in New Mexico's history with basic information upon which they may build greater knowledge by further inquiry. Source material is provided with each entry.