What role did agriculture play in the history of New Mexico’s indigenous peoples?

Agriculture was indeed central to the lifestyle and subsistence of New Mexico’s indigenous peoples. Many Native American communities in the region, such as the Pueblo peoples, developed sophisticated agricultural practices that allowed them to cultivate crops like corn, beans, and squash, known as the "Three Sisters." This agricultural foundation supported their population and enabled the establishment of permanent settlements, leading to rich cultural developments.

The significance of agriculture in indigenous societies is evident through their advanced irrigation techniques and the spiritual connection they had with the land and farming. These practices were not just about food production; they were integral to their social structure, traditions, and identity. Celebrations, rituals, and community cohesion often revolved around agricultural cycles and harvests.

While trade and interactions with European settlers did influence agricultural practices later on, the foundational role of agriculture in New Mexico's indigenous history cannot be underplayed. It was crucial for sustaining their communities long before European contact.