In 1875 the House and Senate were in favor of admitting New Mexico (including Arizona) as a state into the Union. However, Stephen Elkins - the territory's congressional delegate - shook the hand of Michigan Congressman Julius Burrows - a congressman who was very critical of southern racial policies. Southern delegations were peeved enough that they voted against New Mexico's admission, blocking statehood.
What if New Mexico had been admitted as a single state in 1875?
What if New Mexico had been admitted as a single state in 1875?