The kingdom of Spain was the main colonizer for many SW states like California, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado etc.One influence was the language of Spanish so that many people in New Meyxico can speak Spanish. Another influence is the people. Since this was part of New Spain which became Mexico, there are many Mexican people who still work there and in the other US SW states doing work which other Americans might not do like cleaning houses or being a maid or nanny. This, then effects the economy and some of the money they make is sent home to Mexico to their families.