Copper — without this remarkable metal, it is quite likely that Arizona would not have evolved as it did. Because of the development of mining, farmers and ranchers seized opportunities to supply the mining camps with essential goods. They found the deserts and grasslands in the territory ideal for their purposes. Indeed, by employing irrigation techniques these enterprising folks turned a desolate landscape into an oasis.
The relationship among the farmers, the ranchers, and the copper miners literally “put Arizona on the map” as the forty-eighth state of the union. The Great Seal of Arizona features one of the old-time miners, George Warren; the state capitol dome is made of copper; and the state flag bears a shining copper star as its focal point.
|
 |
Arizona's abundant natural resources are tangible proof of the state motto, “ditat deus,” “God enriches.” Today, Arizona is the United States' largest producer of copper. The product delved from Arizona's rocks finds its way into the construction, transportation, and communications industries throughout the world. New and innovative uses are continually being developed. Versatile, valuable, and vital, copper has truly earned its reputation as the star of Arizona.
Bates, Robert L. and Julia A. Jackson, eds. Dictionary of Geological Terms. New York: Doubleday, 1984.
Copper Facts. New York: Copper Development Association, 1998-1999.
Hudson, Travis L., Frederick D. Fox, and Geoffrey S. Plumlee. Metal Mining and the Environment. Alexandria: American Geological Institute, 1999.
The International Copper Study Group's World Copper Factbook. Lisbon: ICSG, 1999.
McBiles, Larry and Gail Lichtenhan. Copper: Versatile, Valuable, and Vital. Phoenix: Phoenix Art Museum, 1998.
McBride, James. The Mission, Means and Memories of Arizona Miners. Arizona Mining Association, 1997.
Out of the Rock. Salt Lake: National Energy Foundation, 1995.
|
Copyright © 2006 Arizona Mining Association. All rights reserved.