why was the Mexican cession a significant event
it united different cultural groups living in western area
The Mexican Cession refers to the acquisition of a large territory in the western region of the United States from Mexico following the Mexican-American War in 1848. This event was significant for several reasons, and one of them was indeed the unification of different cultural groups living in the western area. Here's why:
1. Expansion of the United States: The Mexican Cession significantly expanded the territory of the United States, adding approximately 529,000 square miles to its landmass. This expansion allowed for further westward growth and increased the size and power of the country as a whole.
2. Manifest Destiny: The acquisition of the Mexican Cession aligned with the concept of Manifest Destiny, which was the belief widely held by Americans that it was their destiny to expand and settle the entire continent of North America. This event marked a key step in fulfilling this belief.
3. Cultural Diversity: The Mexican Cession included a diverse range of cultural groups, including Native American tribes, Spanish-speaking populations, and individuals of Anglo-European descent. The unification of these different groups within the newly acquired territory contributed to the cultural fabric and diversity of the western United States.
4. Economic Opportunities: The Mexican Cession opened up vast opportunities for economic development, particularly in terms of natural resources, agriculture, and trade. The region was rich in minerals, fertile land for farming, and offered convenient access to important trade routes.
5. Conflict and Diplomacy: The acquisition of the Mexican Cession resulted from the Mexican-American War, which was a significant conflict between Mexico and the United States. This event shaped the early diplomatic relations between the two countries and had lasting effects on their interactions and borders.
Overall, the Mexican Cession was a significant event that not only expanded the United States territorially but also shaped its cultural, economic, and diplomatic landscape. The unification of different cultural groups in the western area contributed to the diversity and development of the region and the United States as a whole.