Mexican-American War

Definition

The Mexican-American War was a conflict between the United States and Mexico from 1846 to 1848, primarily over territorial disputes following the U.S. annexation of Texas. This war significantly impacted the boundaries and political landscape of the Southwest, setting the stage for U.S. expansion and relations with Native American tribes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Mexican-American War began after disputes over the annexation of Texas and border disagreements, particularly regarding the Rio Grande River.
2. The war saw significant battles, including those at Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, and Buena Vista, showcasing American military strategy and tactics.
3. The conflict ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848, which established the current borders between the U.S. and Mexico.
4. As a result of the war, Mexico ceded about half of its territory to the United States, dramatically reshaping the geography and demographics of North America.
5. The war intensified debates over slavery in newly acquired territories, contributing to rising tensions that eventually led to the Civil War.

Review Questions

• How did the Mexican-American War contribute to the concept of Manifest Destiny in the United States?
  • The Mexican-American War was a significant embodiment of Manifest Destiny as it represented a military effort to expand U.S. territory across North America. Supporters of Manifest Destiny believed it was America's right and duty to spread democracy and civilization, which justified actions like the war. The acquisition of vast territories following this conflict reinforced these beliefs and fueled further westward expansion.
• Evaluate the impact of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on U.S.-Mexico relations following the Mexican-American War.
  • The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo had a profound impact on U.S.-Mexico relations by formalizing territorial changes that created lasting tensions between the two nations. By ceding a significant portion of its territory to the United States, Mexico felt humiliated and aggrieved, fostering resentment that would affect diplomatic relations for years to come. The treaty also complicated issues related to citizenship and land rights for those living in ceded areas.
• Assess how the outcomes of the Mexican-American War shaped interactions between the U.S. government and Native American tribes in the Southwest.
  • The outcomes of the Mexican-American War led to increased U.S. military presence in the Southwest as new territories were incorporated into American governance. This military presence often resulted in conflicts with Native American tribes who had inhabited these lands for centuries. As settlers moved westward into newly acquired territories, it led to further displacement and marginalization of Native populations, as well as military engagements that aimed to assert U.S. control over these areas.

Related terms

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo: The treaty that ended the Mexican-American War, resulting in Mexico ceding a large portion of its northern territories to the United States, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado and New Mexico.

Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century belief that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable, motivating U.S. policies towards territorial acquisition during this era.

Bear Flag Revolt: A rebellion in 1846 by American settlers in California against Mexican rule, which contributed to the U.S. claim over the territory that later became part of the United States.