How Did the Mexican-American War Start?
The Mexican-American War began in 1846 after land negotiations between the two countries failed. After two years of fighting, the United States won the war and gained vast amounts of land that is now the American Southwest.
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American Foreign Policy
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In the 1840s, American foreign policy was dominated by the concept of Manifest Destiny. The country was expanding its westward boundaries, inspired by an overall theme of progress and patriotism.
Mexican Struggles
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At the same time, Mexico had just won its independence from Spain and was struggling to maintain control over a large territory. With limited resources and continuing internal conflicts, Mexico was unable to settle the lands in question.
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Land Negotiations
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In 1845, Congress voted to annex the Republic of Texas. President James K. Polk sent diplomat John Slidell to Mexico to begin negotiations to purchase New Mexico and California. Mexican President Jose Joaquin Herrera refused to meet with him.
Threats
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According to David M. Pletcher of Indiana University, Polk used the threat of war to force Mexico to comply with American land demands. In March 1846, General Zachary Taylor moved his army toward Mexico, entering territory that was claimed by both Mexico and the United States. In April, the American army clashed with the Mexicans.
Declaration of War
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Polk asked Congress to declare war on Mexico in May 1846. After two years of fighting, the Mexican-American War ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
Aftermath
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The treaty forced Mexico to sell more than half its territory to the United States for $15 million. The new American territories included New Mexico, Arizona, California and parts of Utah, Nevada and Colorado.
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