During the Lincoln County War, what did President Hayes declare to characterize the situation in New Mexico?

During the Lincoln County War, the situation in New Mexico escalated into significant violence and conflict, driven by disputes between rival factions involved in the cattle trade and local political power struggles. President Hayes's characterization of the situation as an insurrection reflects the severity and nature of the conflict. By labeling it an insurrection, it indicated that the federal government recognized the unrest as an organized attempt to resist authority, which warranted a serious response. This designation not only justified federal intervention but also highlighted the breakdown of law and order in the region at that time.

The other options do not accurately convey the gravity of the conflict as perceived by the federal government. For example, amnesty would suggest a reconciliation or forgiveness approach towards the insurgents, which was not the stance taken in response to the Lincoln County War. Declaring a state of emergency would imply immediate action due to dangerous conditions, but insurrection specifically addressed the organized resistance aspect. Regulation might refer to attempts at establishing order, but it doesn’t capture the full scope of the chaos and uprisings occurring in New Mexico during the war. Hence, the choice of "insurrection" effectively communicates the challenges faced in managing the violent disputes characteristic of this tumultuous era in New Mexico's history.