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New Mexico's Stolen Lands: A History of Racism, Fraud & Deceit
by Ray John De Aragón

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"New Mexico’s Stolen Lands: A History of Racism, Fraud & Deceit" by Ray John de Aragon is a captivating narrative that unveils the dark history of New Mexico, tainted by a relentless onslaught of fraud, deceit, and systemic land theft from Hispanic and Native American communities.

In this meticulously researched account, Aragon delves into the harrowing experiences of Hispanic and Native American communities, whose ancestral lands were brazenly usurped through fraud, coercion, and murder. Through poignant anecdotes and historical documentation, he vividly portrays the anguish of those who watched helplessly as their homes and way of life were callously torn asunder by opportunistic invaders.

The book exposes chilling revelations of the complicity of politicians, lawyers, and businessmen in perpetuating this cycle of theft and exploitation. From the infamous Santa Fe Ring to individual land thieves who wielded immense power and influence, the betrayal of trust permeated every level of society, leaving an enduring imprint on the history of New Mexico.

Aragon also highlights the valiant efforts of individuals like Reies Lopez Tijerina and the Gorras Blancas, who dared to challenge the status quo and fight for the rights of their people. Their struggles, often met with hostility from the authorities, serve as a beacon of hope in the face of overwhelming adversity.

But perhaps the most poignant aspect of "New Mexico’s Stolen Lands" is its reflection on the enduring legacy of this dark chapter in history. As Aragon powerfully articulates, “The tears shed by Hispanic and Native American communities still flow freely, as they grapple with the profound loss of land that was not just a source of sustenance, but a sacred inheritance passed down through generations.”
Aragon's masterful and meticulous attention to detail make "New Mexico’s Stolen Lands" more than just a historical account; it serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of those who refuse to be silenced in the face of oppression. This is essential reading for educators, students, and anyone seeking to understand the true cost of America's westward expansion and the ongoing struggle for justice in New Mexico and the Southwest.

Author Ray John de Aragón joined La Alianza Federal de las Mercedes in May 1967. The group fought for the rights of Native Americans who had lost their ancestral lands and attempted to have millions of acres of Spanish/Mexican land grants returned to their rightful owners and heirs. De Aragón remains actively involved with issues that affect downtrodden people and prolifically writes on these subjects. He is a recognized historian and scholar of New Mexico and professor of southwest history.
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New Mexico’s Stolen Lands: A History of Racism, Fraud & Deceit is a publication by History Press. 
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alan gerardo padilla aguilar
Written ​by
Alan Gerardo
​Padilla Aguilar
​3/24/2024
Alan Gerardo Padilla Aguilar has a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mexican American Studies. He has been honored with a State of Texas Joint Resolution for his work with the local community. He was chosen to participate in the Harvard Latino Leadership Initiative program at Harvard Kennedy School in 2013. He was also a research assistant for the PBS documentary, “The Head of Joaquin Murrieta.”
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