New Mexico's relative obscurity (many Americans still don't realize we're a state) was literally "blown away" by the dawn of the Atomic Age.  The world's first atom bomb was detonated during July 1945 in the Tularosa Basin of central New Mexico.  Thus was born our longstanding tie to nuclear research, setting the stage for today's growing technical enterprises in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Los Alamos.

An even more momentous event in our state's  history  was perhaps the christening of America's "Mother Road": Route 66, which stretched from Chicago to the Pacific Coast, passing through New Mexico on its way.  Dedicated in 1926 and  paved (finally) in 1937, Route 66 has done more than anything else to bring America to New Mexico – and New Mexico to the world!  People from around the globe seek out the genuine Americana and nostalgic  reminders of  simpler times evoked by Route 66.  Today, it's still possible to find fragmentary stretches of Route 66 to linger along while much of America whizzes by on our more modern Interstate highways.

Above: The El Vado Motel still provides a cool retreat for travelers along Old Route 66.
Left: Albuquerque's Central Avenue traces the path of Route 66 through the heart of the city.
Below: Searching for mementos of Americana?  Or perhaps for peace and justice in today's society?