The Spanish Colonial & Mexican Periods (1540-1848)
edited with Introduction by Richard Melzer
364 pages 17 illustrations
$18.95/PB (978-1-890689-24-7)
published by Rio Grande Books
in collaboration with the
Historical Society of New Mexico
Sunshine and Shadows in
New Mexico’s Past has one main goal: to reveal
the sharp contrasts in New Mexico history. As with all
states, New Mexico has had its share of admirable as well
as deplorable moments, neither of which should be ignored
or exaggerated at the other’s expense. New Mexico’s true
character can only be understood and appreciated by
acknowledging its varied history, blemishes and all.
The first of three volumes, Sunshine and Shadows in
New Mexico’s Past: The Spanish Colonial and Mexican
Periods represents the New Mexico
Historical Society’s humble gift to New Mexico as the
state celebrates its centennial year of statehood in
2012.
-o-o-o-o-o-o-
I am excited to see this Historical Society of New Mexico
publication. Most of us understand that there is much
good research and historical writing that never gets
published, especially in book form. This lack is
especially true of New Mexico, where there will never be
a lack of history to uncover and share. For over three
decades the Historical Society of New Mexico through its
La Crónica de Nuevo México has provided a key outlet of
well-researched historical articles. The result is a
treasure- trove of information that is important,
intriguing, entertaining, and well worth preserving in
this permanent form. Without question, HSNM’s centennial
gift to the state is both welcome and appropriate.—Dr.
Thomas E. Chávez, noted historian and former Director,
Palace of the Governors and National Hispanic Cultural
Center