Write a short essay, explaining whether or not the Mexican-American War was justified. (Only 300 words)
The Mexican-American War, which took place from 1846 to 1848, was a conflict that ignited tensions between the United States and Mexico. It is often debated whether this war was justified or not. While there are arguments on both sides, it can be concluded that the war was not entirely justified due to the circumstances surrounding its origins and the high cost in terms of human lives.
One of the main reasons some argue that the Mexican-American War was justified is the issue of manifest destiny. During the 19th century, the United States believed in the idea of manifest destiny, the belief that it was their fate to expand their territory from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. This belief led many Americans to view the annexation of Texas, a disputed territory between the United States and Mexico, as legitimate. Furthermore, the United States hoped to acquire additional land from Mexico, expanding their territory and securing their growing population in the west.
However, it is important to examine the circumstances that led to the conflict. The annexation of Texas by the United States was a highly contentious issue, as Mexico considered it a violation of their sovereignty. Additionally, the disputed border between the two countries further exacerbated tensions. It can be argued that the United States' expansionist agenda was at odds with Mexico's rights as a sovereign nation.
Moreover, the war resulted in a significant loss of life on both sides. Numerous soldiers and civilians from both Mexico and the United States died during the conflict. The human cost of war should always be a major factor in determining whether it is justified. In this case, the loss of life was substantial and could have been avoided had a peaceful resolution been pursued.
In conclusion, while the concept of manifest destiny and the desire for territorial expansion may justify the war to some extent, the circumstances surrounding the Mexican-American War and the loss of life make it difficult to argue that the conflict was entirely justified. Diplomatic avenues should have been pursued to resolve the annexation of Texas and to address the disputes over the border. Ultimately, the Mexican-American War can be regarded as a costly conflict that could have been avoided through peaceful negotiations.