Every seasoned crossword solver knows the thrill of a particularly well-crafted crossword clue. It’s that moment when you encounter a phrase that, at first glance, seems utterly opaque, yet promises a satisfying “aha!” moment if you just dig deep enough. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one such gem: “Like Santa Fe, among U.S. capitals.” This isn’t just any geography crossword clue; it’s a clever test of both your historical knowledge and your ability to connect dots across a broad landscape of American cities.
The beauty of this crossword clue lies in its subtlety. It doesn’t ask for a direct definition or a simple recall of a fact. Instead, it presents a comparison, asking you to identify a shared characteristic that Santa Fe possesses alongside other U.S. capitals. Santa Fe itself is a city steeped in history, culture, and a distinct Southwestern charm. It’s known for its adobe architecture, its vibrant arts scene, and its incredibly long and storied past. But which specific quality, among its many attributes, is the one this crossword clue is hinting at?
When you first encounter a crossword clue like this, your mind might race through several possibilities. Is it about elevation? Santa Fe is indeed high up in the mountains. Is it about population size? Perhaps its relatively small stature compared to other state capitals. Or could it be about its unique architectural style? While all valid characteristics of Santa Fe, the phrase “among U.S. capitals” suggests a broader, more fundamental commonality shared by a select group, not just an isolated trait. This particular crossword clue invites you to think about foundational aspects, something integral to the identity of these cities.
To crack this crossword clue, we need to think about what makes Santa Fe truly stand out in a historical context, beyond just being
old
. Many cities have history, but what kind of historical significance does Santa Fe embody that can be mirrored by other capital cities across the nation? This isn’t about mere age in years, but perhaps a type of historical designation or origin story that sets certain capitals apart from those that were established much later or built from scratch. It’s a question that requires a nuanced understanding of American urban development and the various reasons why certain places became seats of government.
Unpacking this kind of crossword clue requires more than just recalling trivia; it demands a deeper engagement with the subject matter. It pushes you to consider the essence of what makes a capital city historically significant. Are we talking about the colonial era? The post-revolutionary period? Or perhaps a connection to indigenous history that predates European settlement? The phrase “Like Santa Fe” acts as your primary compass, guiding you towards the specific historical characteristic that will unlock the answer.
If you’re grappling with this crossword clue, don’t despair. These are often the most rewarding to solve. The satisfaction comes from peeling back the layers of information, discarding the obvious, and finally homing in on the precise attribute that fits the bill for Santa Fe and its peers. It’s the kind of clever crossword clue that elevates puzzle-solving from a simple word game to an engaging intellectual exercise. Think about the enduring legacy, the deep roots, and the venerable status that some capitals hold. What designation connects Santa Fe with a select cohort of other capital cities in the U.S.? The answer, once it clicks, feels incredibly right, a testament to the elegant design of this particular crossword clue. Keep pondering, and that “aha!” moment will surely arrive.
Available Answers:
OLDEST.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Saturday’s Daily By Kelly Morenus & Erik Agard / Ed. Patti Varol