Happy Valentine's Day and Happy Birthday Arizona

President Taft's Reluctant Signature

When Arizona finally drafted its state constitution in 1910, it included a progressive provision that would allow voters to recall judges—a measure that President William Howard Taft strongly opposed. He vetoed Arizona's statehood bill specifically because of this clause, calling it a threat to judicial independence.

Arizona compromised by removing the recall provision, and on February 14, 1912, President Taft signed the proclamation admitting Arizona as the 48th state. But Arizonans got the last word: just months after gaining statehood, they voted to reinstate the judicial recall provision as an amendment to their constitution.

The Last of the Continental States

Arizona's admission marked a significant milestone—it was the last of the contiguous 48 states to join the Union. Only Alaska and Hawaii would follow, both in 1959. For nearly half a century, Arizona held the distinction of being America's "newest" mainland state.

February 14, 1912, was a day of jubilation across the territory. In Phoenix, celebrations included parades, fireworks, and speeches. Church bells rang out, and buildings were draped in patriotic bunting. After waiting so long for recognition, Arizonans finally had their moment.

A Valentine to the Grand Canyon State

Today, Arizona celebrates its birthday with the same enthusiasm that marked that first Valentine's Day as a state. Some residents joke that their state was destined for a February 14th statehood date—after all, what's not to love about the Grand Canyon, stunning desert sunsets, and year-round sunshine?

The coincidence of dates has given rise to various celebrations over the years, with some communities combining Valentine's Day festivities with statehood commemorations. Red and white decorations do double duty, representing both hearts and the copper star on Arizona's state flag.

More Than Just a Date

While the Valentine's Day connection is charming, Arizona's statehood represents something more profound—the culmination of a frontier territory's transformation into a full partner in American democracy. From its Indigenous roots through Spanish colonization, Mexican rule, and territorial status, Arizona's path to statehood reflects the complex and often contested history of the American Southwest.

Today, as the nation's 14th largest state by population and 6th largest by area, Arizona has certainly grown into its role. And every February 14th, while couples across America celebrate their love, Arizonans can also celebrate their state's special place in the Union.

So this Valentine's Day, whether you're an Arizona native or just passing through, take a moment to appreciate that 113 years ago today, the Grand Canyon State officially became part of the American family. It's a love story that's stood the test of time.

Happy Valentine's Day, and happy birthday, Arizona! 💕🌵