Hello! I have to write an essay for Social Studies. I wrote it, but it needs a ton of work. If anyone has some time, it would be greatly appreciated! I need some suggestions- And I know there are a ton. Thank you so so so so so so soooooooooooooooooo much!
For this portfolio project, you will explore different perspectives regarding the Mexican-American War. You will then present your findings in a short essay. Your final product will describe each point of view. It should give historically accurate facts. Your portfolio assignment has four steps:
Research the Mexican-American War—its causes, the course of the conflict, and its results.
Examine the Pearson Realize Civic Discussion Sources A–E for additional information.
Analyze your research.
Form your judgment and write your essay.
My (Lots-of-room-for-improvement) Essay is:
The Mexican American War began in the year 1945 on May 9, after President James Polk of the United States declared war on Mexico for attacking U.S. troops stationed in Texas. For most southern American citizens, the war could be only beneficial. The country could gain land, power, and slaves if they won. For Mexico, the war could only harm. If they lost, they would lose land and power.
I just need some suggestions on how to make it longer and, well, better.
Once more, I know it needs a TON of work. And thank you so so so much if you are willing to help. I will really, really, really appreciate it.
The Mexican American War began in the year 1945 on May 9, after President James Polk of the United States declared war on Mexico for attacking U.S. troops stationed in Texas.
For most southern American citizens, the war could be only beneficial.
The country could gain land, power, and slaves if they won.
For Mexico, the war could only harm. If they lost, they would lose land and power.
Use each sentence to build a paragraph. Each sentence could be the topic sentence or a supporting detail, depending on the ideas connected to that sentence.
Thank you!
You're welcome!
Of course, I would be happy to help you improve your essay! Based on the initial draft you shared, here are some suggestions on how to make it longer and more well-rounded:
1. Provide more historical context: Start by introducing the background and causes of the Mexican-American War. Talk about the tensions between the United States and Mexico, including the annexation of Texas by the U.S., the border dispute, and the conflicting perceptions of manifest destiny.
2. Explore the perspectives in more detail: Instead of just mentioning that the war could be beneficial for southern American citizens and harmful for Mexico, expand on these perspectives. Discuss how different groups within the United States, such as politicians, expansionists, and slaveholders, viewed the war and their motivations for supporting it. For Mexico, explore the reasons and reactions of their government and citizens to the U.S. aggression.
3. Describe the course of the conflict: Discuss the major battles, key military strategies, and notable events that unfolded during the war. Highlight the role of prominent figures, such as General Zachary Taylor and General Winfield Scott, and how their actions influenced the outcome.
4. Address the aftermath and consequences: Explain the results and impact of the Mexican-American War. Discuss the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the war and forced Mexico to cede a significant amount of territory to the United States. Analyze the effects of this loss of land, power, and resources on Mexico's economy, politics, and national identity.
5. Incorporate additional sources: Use the Pearson Realize Civic Discussion Sources A-E, as mentioned in the assignment, to support your analysis. These sources may provide perspectives, primary documents, or scholarly articles that can enrich your understanding of the war and strengthen your arguments.
Remember to cite your sources properly and maintain a clear and organized structure throughout your essay. By expanding on these points, your essay will become more comprehensive and provide a deeper understanding of the Mexican-American War from various perspectives. Good luck with your revision!