What was one of New Mexico's internal challenges in becoming a state?

One of the significant internal challenges that New Mexico faced in becoming a state was related to issues with land and water rights. As the territory transitioned towards statehood, there were complex legal and social disputes surrounding ownership of land and access to water resources. These disputes often stemmed from the diverse interests of Native Americans, Spanish land grant holders, and Anglo settlers, all of whom had different claims and cultural ties to the land.

The resolution of these land and water rights was crucial for establishing a stable governance structure and ensuring equitable resource distribution among the population. Without addressing these pressing local issues, it would have been challenging to foster a sense of unity and cooperation necessary for statehood. As such, the struggle to resolve these rights directly impacted New Mexico's path to becoming the 47th state in the Union.