Mexican-American War

Mexican-American War

The Mexican-American War (April 25, 1846 – February 2, 1848) was an armed conflict between the United States and Mexico stemming from the U.S. annexation of Texas in 1845 and from a dispute over whether Texas ended at the Nueces River (Mexican claim) or the Rio Grande (U.S. claim). The war resulted in a decisive U.S. victory.

Background

The roots of the Mexican-American War can be traced back to the annexation of Texas by the United States in 1845. Texas had won its independence from Mexico in 1836, but Mexico never recognized this independence. When the U.S. annexed Texas, Mexico saw it as an act of aggression, leading to diplomatic tensions and the eventual breakout of war.

Outbreak of War

The war began after a series of skirmishes along the Rio Grande, which the U.S. claimed as the Texas border. Following these skirmishes, U.S. President James K. Polk requested a declaration of war from Congress, which was issued on May 13, 1846.

Major Campaigns and Battles

The war featured several key campaigns:

• The Northern Campaign, led by General Zachary Taylor, saw significant battles such as the Battle of Palo Alto and the Battle of Monterrey.
• The Western Campaign, under General Stephen W. Kearny, included the capture of New Mexico and California.
• The Central Campaign, directed by General Winfield Scott, started with the amphibious landing at Veracruz and culminated in the capture of Mexico City in September 1847.

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

The war concluded with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848. Under the terms of the treaty, Mexico ceded large tracts of land to the United States (including what are now California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Texas). In return, the U.S. paid Mexico $15 million and assumed $3.25 million in debts owed by Mexico to U.S. citizens.

Impact and Legacy

The Mexican-American War had significant implications for both nations. The U.S. increased its territory by approximately one-third, fueling the debate over the expansion of slavery and setting the stage for the American Civil War. For Mexico, the war resulted in substantial territorial losses and internal political divisions.

See also

• History of Mexico
• History of the United States
• Manifest Destiny