why was the mexican cession a significant event
The Mexican Cession was a significant event because it marked a major territorial expansion of the United States and created geopolitical tensions between the United States and Mexico. Here are some key reasons why it was significant:
1. Expansion of the United States: The Mexican Cession, which occurred in 1848, added approximately 525,000 square miles of territory to the United States. This included present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming. It represented a significant increase in the size of the country and expanded U.S. influence in the West.
2. Manifest Destiny: The Mexican Cession was seen as a fulfillment of the concept of Manifest Destiny, the belief that it was the destiny of the United States to expand and spread its influence across the North American continent. The acquisition of this vast territory furthered the sense of American exceptionalism and justified westward expansion.
3. Conflict between the United States and Mexico: The Mexican Cession was the result of the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), in which the United States fought against Mexico to establish control over these territories. This conflict stemmed from long-standing tensions between the two countries, primarily over the disputed Texas border. The Mexican Cession further strained relations between the U.S. and Mexico, leading to lasting diplomatic and geopolitical repercussions.
4. Sectional tensions over slavery: The Mexican Cession brought the issue of slavery to the forefront of American politics. As new territories were acquired, the question arose as to whether they would allow or prohibit slavery. This further deepened sectional tensions between the Northern and Southern states, laying the groundwork for the future American Civil War.
5. Economic opportunities and resources: The Mexican Cession provided the United States with valuable natural resources, including gold, silver, and other minerals. It also opened up trade opportunities with the Pacific Rim and facilitated the development of infrastructure such as railroads. These economic opportunities contributed to the growth of the United States as an emerging world power.
Overall, the Mexican Cession was a significant event in American history due to its impact on territorial expansion, diplomatic relations, sectional tensions, and economic opportunities.