Taking on Giants: Fabian Chavez Jr. and New Mexico Politics

By David Roybal

Book Overview

Twelve-year-old Fabian Chavez Jr. grabbed a small cardboard suitcase and a few packaged snacks before hitchhiking 1,300 miles across two state lines. His parents in Santa Fe didn't learn of his intentions--or his whereabouts--until he was already midway through his journey to the Hollywood that had captured his imagination. Although his childhood antics suggested he might end up serving time rather than the public, Chavez ultimately dedicated thirty years to a variety of state posts in New Mexico, blazing new trails into civil rights, education, business, government, and politics. Chavez was instrumental in the creation of the University of New Mexico's medical school, pushed legislation that would reform the state's notoriously corrupt liquor laws, and promoted New Mexico tourism. David Roybal's examination of the life and accomplishments of the reform-minded Democrat also explores the broader political history of New Mexico over the last half of the twentieth century. Roybal surveys the back room deals, the trade offs, and the rise of such governors as Bruce King, Jerry Apodaca, and Toney Anaya to create a work that deftly portrays New Mexico's fractious and complicated recent political history.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0826344364
• ISBN13: 9780826344366
• Release Date: May 2008
• Publisher: University of New Mexico Press
• Length: 320 Pages
• Weight: 2.73 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.1" x 6.5" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Great Read!

This great book for anyone interested in New Mexico history, state politics etc, etc, etc. Fabian is a great example of a statesman doing what is right despite the possible consequences.

A Giant takes on Giants

After reading this biography you may be surprised to find that this is only a part of the story. But this part is well told. As I am from a family that has followed New Mexico doings for almost a century and have worked for Fabian and with David over the years I am not unbiased. However, if you had been at Fabian's side as he entered any gathering of the state's leaders over the last 30 years you could not fail to be impressed at the warm personal welcome and obvious regard for this man from the most important people of the time, and the barely masked discomfort of those who put personal gain ahead of the good of the State of New Mexico. If you are new to New Mexico, read this book for a better understanding of how we got to where we are today. If you live or work in New Mexico, keep this book handy and refer to it when you need to know how to get things done. Older folks will find lots to prompt their recollections, but, if you are young, read it to find an example of how to overcome challenges and leave a legacy greater than yourself.