Describe the beginnings of the Mexican-American war
The Mexican-American War, also known as the U.S.-Mexican War, was a conflict that took place between the years 1846 and 1848. It originated from a variety of causes and tensions between the two nations.
The roots of the war can be traced back to the Texas Revolution in 1836, when the Republic of Texas declared its independence from Mexico. The Mexican government refused to recognize Texas's independence and maintained its claim over the territory, considering it a rebellious province. However, in 1845, Texas was annexed by the United States and became its 28th state, further exacerbating the tensions.
Additionally, there were disagreements between Mexico and the United States over the border dispute between the newly acquired Texas and Mexico's northeastern state of Coahuila y Tejas. The border was a point of contention, with Texas claiming the Rio Grande as its boundary, while Mexico insisted on the Nueces River further to the north.
Furthermore, disputes over unpaid debts and compensation for damages suffered by American citizens in Mexican territory added to the deteriorating relations between the two nations. President James K. Polk, who assumed office in 1845, had a strong desire to annex more Mexican territory and extend American influence. His administration aimed to acquire not only Texas but also California and New Mexico.
Tensions reached a tipping point in April 1846 when a brief clash known as the Thornton Affair occurred. American troops under the command of Captain Seth Thornton were attacked by Mexican forces near the Rio Grande. Polk seized this incident as a reason to escalate hostilities and called for a declaration of war.
On May 13, 1846, the U.S. Congress declared war on Mexico, despite opposition from anti-slavery factions who saw the conflict as an attempt to expand slave territory. The war began with the U.S. Army's invasion of Mexican territory, led by General Zachary Taylor. The American forces achieved several victories, including the capture of Monterrey and the Battle of Buena Vista. Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy initiated a blockade along the Gulf of Mexico coast, crippling Mexican trade.
The war continued for more than a year, with the U.S. Army pushing deeper into Mexican territory. In 1847, General Winfield Scott launched a daring amphibious invasion at Veracruz and then marched inland towards Mexico City. The Mexican capital fell in September 1847, effectively ending the war.
In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, officially ending the conflict. Mexico was forced to cede vast amounts of territory to the United States, including California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The United States paid Mexico $15 million in compensation and assumed $3.25 million in debts owed to American citizens.
The Mexican-American War played a significant role in shaping the geopolitical landscape of the United States and Mexico. It fueled tensions between the two countries for decades to come, and its consequences influenced various aspects of U.S.-Mexican relations, including the issue of border disputes and immigration.