Mexican–American War

Mexico 1832, Region Comanche

Comanches

Mexico 1824 (equirectangular projection)

Wpdms republic of texas

Oleo Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna

Mexican–American War

The Mexican–American War (April 25, 1846 – February 2, 1848) was an armed conflict between the United States and Mexico. It followed the 1845 U.S. annexation of Texas, which Mexico still considered its territory despite the 1836 Texas Revolution.

Background

After its independence from Spain in 1821, Mexico faced internal struggles that made it difficult to secure its northern territories. The U.S., under the doctrine of Manifest Destiny, believed it was their right and destiny to expand westward across the North American continent. The annexation of Texas, which had been a contentious issue between Mexico and the U.S., served as the immediate cause of the war.

Causes

The main causes of the Mexican–American War included the annexation of Texas and the dispute over whether the Texas border ended at the Nueces River (the Mexican claim) or the Rio Grande (the U.S. claim). Additionally, the desire of the U.S. to acquire Mexican territories such as California and New Mexico played a significant role.

Course of the War

The war began when Mexican forces attacked U.S. soldiers in the disputed territory between the Nueces and the Rio Grande. Following the initial skirmishes, the U.S. launched a series of military campaigns that included the invasion of Mexican territory. Notable generals such as Zachary Taylor, Winfield Scott, and Stephen W. Kearny led these campaigns. The war saw significant battles, including the Battle of Palo Alto, the Siege of Veracruz, and the capture of Mexico City.

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which required Mexico to cede 55% of its territory, including parts of present-day Arizona, California, New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah, to the U.S. In return, the U.S. paid Mexico $15 million and assumed $3.25 million in debt owed by Mexico to U.S. citizens.

Aftermath

The Mexican–American War had significant implications for both nations. For the United States, it marked a significant expansion of its territory and was a proving ground for officers who would later fight in the American Civil War. For Mexico, the war resulted in the loss of a vast portion of its territory and led to a period of internal political turmoil.

Legacy

The Mexican–American War remains a contentious period in U.S.-Mexico relations. It is seen by some as a manifestation of American expansionism, while others view it as a legitimate exercise of national rights. The war's legacy continues to influence the cultural and political landscape of the North American continent.