Ep 10. New Mexico

In the season 3 finale episode of Drunk History, titled "New Mexico," viewers are taken on a wild ride through the history of the American Southwest. Host Derek Waters welcomes actress Retta to join him for a night of drinking and historical shenanigans, as they explore the fascinating stories of New Mexico's past.

The episode begins with a hilarious retelling of a pivotal moment in the battle for New Mexico's statehood. As Retta downs shots and narrates, viewers are transported back in time to 1910, when Spanish and English-speaking New Mexicans were vying for power and representation in the newly-formed state government. The retelling is both uproarious and informative, shedding light on the often-overlooked struggles of Latino and Indigenous people in America's early years.

Next, the show takes a turn to explore the legend of Billy the Kid. As Retta takes shots and slurs her speech, viewers learn about the outlaw's rise to infamy and his complicated, morally ambiguous legacy. Through hilarious reenactments and insightful commentary, the show illuminates the intersection of myth and reality that surrounds one of the most notorious figures of the Wild West.

The episode then shifts to a more serious tone, as Retta relates the story of the internment of Japanese-Americans in New Mexico during World War II. As she struggles to keep her composure between sips of alcohol, viewers are introduced to the harrowing history of this dark moment in US history. By focusing on a lesser-known aspect of the Japanese internment, particularly the experience of Japanese farmers in southern New Mexico, the show highlights the need for greater awareness of America's past injustices.

The next segment of the episode delves into the fascinating story of William Becknell, the man who pioneered the famed Santa Fe Trail. Retta's tipsiness adds an extra layer of humor to the tale of how Becknell defied Mexican authorities, smuggled valuable goods across the border, and helped establish one of America's most vital trade routes. Through humorous reenactments and quirky anecdotes, the show offers an insightful look into the early days of American commerce and expansionism.

Finally, the episode concludes with an examination of the bizarre, almost unbelievable story of Albert Fall, New Mexico's first ever senator. As Retta grows increasingly inebriated, viewers are treated to a wild ride through the scandalous events that brought down Fall's career, specifically the infamous Teapot Dome scandal. The tale is punctuated with hilarious tangents and surreal visuals, making for a memorable and entertaining finale.

Overall, "New Mexico" is a standout episode of Drunk History, blending humor, history, and alcohol in equal measure. Viewers will leave the show educated, entertained, and perhaps a little tipsy themselves.