1. In 1923, New Mexico Governor James Hinkle was born on November 8th in Paris, Texas. Hinkle served as governor from 1943 to 1947 and is known for his efforts to improve public education and infrastructure in the state.

2. On November 8, 1950, New Mexico Senator Dennis Chavez was re-elected to the U.S. Senate. Chavez was the first Hispanic person elected to the Senate and served for 27 years, working to advance civil rights and improve conditions for laborers and farmers.

3. The Battle of Picacho Pass, a small Civil War skirmish, took place on November 8, 1861, in southern New Mexico. A group of Confederate soldiers fought against Union troops but were ultimately defeated. The battle is considered to be one of the westernmost battles of the Civil War.

4. November 8, 1944, marked the opening of the Taos Ski Valley, a popular skiing destination in northern New Mexico. The resort was founded by Ernie Blake, who immigrated to the United States from Germany in 1938 and fell in love with the mountains of New Mexico.

5. New Mexico artist Georgia O'Keeffe, known for her iconic depictions of the southwestern landscape, was born on November 8, 1887. O'Keeffe spent much of her career painting in New Mexico and is celebrated as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.