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Before becoming a US territory in 1848, Arizona was part of Mexico. The Mexican government established the region as part of the state of Sonora, but it later became its own separate territory.
About Pima County
Pima County Timeline
Pima County, located in southern Arizona, has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The area has been inhabited by Native American cultures for over 4,000 years, with the Hohokam and Tohono O'odham tribes leaving a strong cultural impact. The Hohokam people, known for their vibrant pottery and advanced irrigation systems, dominated the region from around 300 BCE to 1450 CE. The Tohono O'odham people continue to reside in the county today and have maintained many of their traditional customs and traditions.
European exploration began in the late 17th century, with the Spanish establishing Mission San Xavier del Bac in 1692 as part of their efforts to colonize the region. This mission, located in present-day Tucson, still stands as a testament to the Spanish influence in the area. In the early 19th century, the United States acquired this territory as part of the Gadsden Purchase, which also included parts of present-day New Mexico. This marked the beginning of Anglo-American settlement in the county.
Pima County played a significant role in the Western expansion of the United States during the mid-19th century. It served as a transportation corridor during the California Gold Rush, with stagecoach lines and military forts being established along the Tucson-Phoenix route. The county saw the establishment of Fort Lowell in 1866, which provided protection for settlers and travelers in the region. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s further spurred the growth and development of Pima County, connecting it to major cities and fostering economic prosperity.
In the 20th century, Pima County experienced significant growth and urbanization. Tucson, the county seat and largest city, emerged as a major center of industry, commerce, and education. The area's ideal climate and natural beauty also attracted retirees and tourists. Pima County is home to several scenic landmarks, such as Saguaro National Park, Mount Lemmon, and Sabino Canyon. Today, Pima County continues to thrive economically, with diverse industries including aerospace, technology, healthcare, and tourism contributing to its success.
European exploration began in the late 17th century, with the Spanish establishing Mission San Xavier del Bac in 1692 as part of their efforts to colonize the region. This mission, located in present-day Tucson, still stands as a testament to the Spanish influence in the area. In the early 19th century, the United States acquired this territory as part of the Gadsden Purchase, which also included parts of present-day New Mexico. This marked the beginning of Anglo-American settlement in the county.
Pima County played a significant role in the Western expansion of the United States during the mid-19th century. It served as a transportation corridor during the California Gold Rush, with stagecoach lines and military forts being established along the Tucson-Phoenix route. The county saw the establishment of Fort Lowell in 1866, which provided protection for settlers and travelers in the region. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s further spurred the growth and development of Pima County, connecting it to major cities and fostering economic prosperity.
In the 20th century, Pima County experienced significant growth and urbanization. Tucson, the county seat and largest city, emerged as a major center of industry, commerce, and education. The area's ideal climate and natural beauty also attracted retirees and tourists. Pima County is home to several scenic landmarks, such as Saguaro National Park, Mount Lemmon, and Sabino Canyon. Today, Pima County continues to thrive economically, with diverse industries including aerospace, technology, healthcare, and tourism contributing to its success.
Pima County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Pima County, Arizona.
- 1775: Spanish explorers enter the region, establishing a presidio.
- 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Pima County becomes part of the Mexican territory.
- 1853: The Gadsden Purchase adds present-day Pima County to the United States.
- 1864: Pima County is officially established by the Arizona Territorial Legislature.
- 1877: Tucson, located in Pima County, becomes the state capital of the Arizona Territory.
- 1912: Arizona becomes the 48th state, and Pima County remains an integral part of it.
- 1939: The Davis-Monthan Air Force Base is established, contributing to the county's economy.
- 1964: The University of Arizona's Lunar and Planetary Laboratory is founded in Pima County.
- 1981: The Pima Air & Space Museum opens, becoming a popular attraction.
- 2011: The shooting of U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson garners national attention.