Why Did The Mexican American War Start? A Deep Dive

The Mexican-American War began primarily due to a dispute over the boundary between the United States and Mexico, particularly concerning Texas, and the U.S.’s expansionist ambitions; learn more about the conflict that shaped the US-Mexico border on gaymexico.net. This war has significant implications for LGBTQ+ individuals of Mexican descent, as it impacts cultural identity and historical understanding. Dive deeper to explore the historical context and its lasting effects.

1. What Sparked the Mexican-American War?

The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) was ignited by a complex interplay of territorial disputes, expansionist desires, and political tensions. Mexico’s refusal to acknowledge Texas’s independence and the subsequent annexation of Texas by the U.S. in 1845 escalated tensions. The core issue revolved around the location of the Texas-Mexico border, with the U.S. claiming it was the Rio Grande and Mexico asserting it was the Nueces River, further north. This disagreement, coupled with President Polk’s expansionist ambitions, led to armed conflict.

The annexation of Texas by the United States in 1845 heightened the existing tensions between the two nations. Mexico, which had never formally recognized Texas independence after the Texas Revolution in 1836, viewed the annexation as an act of aggression. The United States, under President James K. Polk, was eager to expand its territory westward, fueled by the concept of Manifest Destiny, which promoted the belief that the U.S. was destined to stretch across the North American continent. The disputed territory between the Nueces River and the Rio Grande became a flashpoint. Polk’s administration aimed to secure California and other western territories, leading to a series of calculated provocations and diplomatic failures that eventually triggered the war. The domestic political climate in both countries also played a role, with factions in the U.S. supporting expansion and factions in Mexico resistant to ceding any more territory.

2. What Were the Main Causes of the Mexican-American War?

The primary causes of the Mexican-American War include territorial disputes, the annexation of Texas, Manifest Destiny, and political ambitions. These factors combined to create an environment ripe for conflict, ultimately leading to war between the U.S. and Mexico.

• Territorial Disputes: The most immediate cause was the disagreement over the Texas-Mexico border. The U.S. claimed the border was the Rio Grande, while Mexico insisted it was the Nueces River, encompassing a large area known as the Nueces Strip.
• Annexation of Texas: The U.S. annexation of Texas in 1845 was a major point of contention. Mexico had never recognized Texas’s independence and viewed the annexation as an act of aggression.
• Manifest Destiny: The belief in Manifest Destiny, the idea that the U.S. was destined to expand across the North American continent, fueled American expansionist ambitions and the desire to acquire more territory from Mexico.
• Political Ambitions: President James K. Polk was a strong proponent of expansion and sought to acquire California and other western territories. His administration pursued policies that deliberately provoked Mexico into war.

3. How Did the Annexation of Texas Contribute to the War?

The annexation of Texas was a critical factor in escalating tensions between the U.S. and Mexico, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of the Mexican-American War. Mexico refused to acknowledge Texas’s independence, viewing it as a rebellious province. When the U.S. annexed Texas in 1845, Mexico considered it an act of war.

Mexico had warned that the annexation of Texas would lead to war. From Mexico’s perspective, Texas was a breakaway province that had declared independence in 1836, but Mexico never formally recognized this independence. The U.S. annexation was seen as an infringement on Mexican sovereignty. President Polk’s decision to send troops into the disputed territory between the Nueces River and the Rio Grande further inflamed the situation. This military presence was viewed by Mexico as an invasion of its territory. The annexation of Texas, therefore, served as a major catalyst, pushing the two nations closer to armed conflict.

4. What Role Did Manifest Destiny Play in the Start of the War?

Manifest Destiny played a significant ideological role in the lead-up to the Mexican-American War. It was the widely held belief that the United States was destined by God to expand its dominion and spread democracy and capitalism across the entire North American continent. This belief fueled American expansionist ambitions and provided a moral justification for acquiring new territories, including those held by Mexico.

The concept of Manifest Destiny was used to justify the annexation of Texas, the push for California, and other territorial acquisitions. It framed American expansion as a virtuous and inevitable process, often overlooking or downplaying the rights and interests of those already living in these territories. Many Americans believed that they were bringing progress and civilization to what they saw as less developed regions. This sense of cultural and racial superiority influenced attitudes toward Mexico and its people, making it easier to rationalize the use of force to achieve American goals. The idea of Manifest Destiny provided a powerful motivation for the war and shaped the way many Americans viewed the conflict.

5. What Were President Polk’s Intentions Leading Up to the War?

President James K. Polk’s intentions leading up to the Mexican-American War were centered on territorial expansion. He was a strong believer in Manifest Destiny and was determined to acquire California and other western territories from Mexico. His actions and policies were deliberately aimed at provoking Mexico into war, providing the U.S. with a pretext to seize these lands.

Polk pursued a strategy of aggressive diplomacy and military posturing to achieve his goals. He offered to purchase California and New Mexico from Mexico, but when these offers were rejected, he took more confrontational steps. He ordered U.S. troops, under General Zachary Taylor, into the disputed territory between the Nueces River and the Rio Grande, knowing that this would likely provoke a military response from Mexico. Polk’s administration also engaged in covert operations to encourage rebellion in California, further destabilizing the region. His ultimate aim was to secure these territories for the United States, and he was willing to risk war to achieve that objective.

6. How Did the Thornton Affair Trigger the War?

The Thornton Affair, also known as the Thornton Massacre, was a key event that triggered the Mexican-American War. On April 25, 1846, a U.S. scouting party of about 70 dragoons, led by Captain Seth Thornton, was ambushed by a larger Mexican force north of the Rio Grande in the disputed territory. This clash resulted in the death or capture of several American soldiers, providing President Polk with the justification he needed to ask Congress for a declaration of war.

The incident was portrayed by Polk as an unprovoked attack on American soil, although the location of the skirmish was in disputed territory claimed by both the U.S. and Mexico. Polk told Congress that Mexico had “invaded our territory and shed American blood upon the American soil.” This message resonated with many Americans and helped to rally support for the war. The Thornton Affair served as the immediate trigger, providing the political momentum necessary for the U.S. to declare war on Mexico.

7. What Was the Disputed Territory Between the U.S. and Mexico?

The disputed territory between the U.S. and Mexico was the land between the Nueces River and the Rio Grande. This area, known as the Nueces Strip, was claimed by both Texas (and therefore the U.S. after Texas’s annexation) and Mexico. The U.S. asserted that the Rio Grande was the border, while Mexico maintained that the Nueces River was the rightful boundary.

The disagreement over this territory was a central cause of the Mexican-American War. President Polk ordered U.S. troops into the Nueces Strip, which Mexico viewed as an invasion of its territory. This military presence heightened tensions and eventually led to armed conflict. The Thornton Affair, in which American soldiers were attacked north of the Rio Grande, occurred within this disputed area, further escalating the situation and leading to the declaration of war. The control and ownership of this land were critical issues that fueled the conflict between the two nations.

8. How Did the U.S. Military Strategy Contribute to Victory?

The U.S. military strategy in the Mexican-American War combined innovative tactics, competent leadership, and a degree of luck, leading to decisive victories. The U.S. employed a multi-pronged approach, including campaigns in California and New Mexico, as well as the main thrust into the heart of Mexico. Key to their success was the superior artillery and logistical capabilities of the U.S. Army.

General Zachary Taylor’s victories at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma early in the war secured the Rio Grande border. Meanwhile, General Winfield Scott’s amphibious landing at Veracruz and subsequent march inland to capture Mexico City proved to be a brilliant strategic move. The U.S. Navy also played a crucial role by blockading Mexican ports, cutting off supplies and trade. The combination of these factors allowed the U.S. to achieve victory despite being outnumbered and fighting in unfamiliar terrain.

9. What Were the Key Battles of the Mexican-American War?

Key battles of the Mexican-American War include Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, Monterrey, Buena Vista, Veracruz, and the Battle for Mexico City. These battles marked significant victories for the U.S. military and were instrumental in securing the ultimate American triumph in the war.

• Palo Alto (May 8, 1846): The first major battle of the war, where General Zachary Taylor’s forces defeated the Mexican army despite being outnumbered.
• Resaca de la Palma (May 9, 1846): Another victory for Taylor, further solidifying U.S. control over the Rio Grande border.
• Monterrey (September 21-24, 1846): A hard-fought battle where U.S. forces captured the city of Monterrey, though with significant casualties.
• Buena Vista (February 22-23, 1847): General Taylor, again outnumbered, secured a crucial victory against Santa Anna’s forces.
• Veracruz (March 9-29, 1847): General Winfield Scott’s amphibious landing and capture of Veracruz opened the way for the invasion of central Mexico.
• Battle for Mexico City (September 12-14, 1847): The culmination of the war, with U.S. forces capturing Mexico City, leading to the end of hostilities.

10. What Were the Terms of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848, officially ended the Mexican-American War. Under the treaty, Mexico ceded to the United States a vast territory that included present-day California, Nevada, Utah, most of Arizona, and New Mexico, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, and Kansas. In exchange, the U.S. paid Mexico $15 million and assumed claims of U.S. citizens against Mexico, which amounted to another $3.25 million.

The treaty also established the Rio Grande as the boundary between Texas and Mexico. Furthermore, it addressed the rights of Mexican citizens living in the ceded territories, promising them U.S. citizenship and the protection of their property rights. However, in practice, these rights were often violated, leading to significant social and economic challenges for Mexican Americans in the years that followed. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo had a profound and lasting impact on both the U.S. and Mexico, reshaping their borders and influencing their relationship for generations to come.

11. How Did the Mexican-American War Impact the United States?

The Mexican-American War had a profound impact on the United States, both positive and negative. The war resulted in a significant expansion of U.S. territory, fulfilling the ambitions of Manifest Destiny. However, it also exacerbated the issue of slavery, leading to increased sectional tensions between the North and the South.

The acquisition of vast new territories, including California, New Mexico, and Arizona, opened up new opportunities for economic development and westward expansion. The discovery of gold in California shortly after the war led to the Gold Rush, transforming the region and attracting settlers from around the world. However, the question of whether these new territories would be free or slave states intensified the debate over slavery, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of the Civil War. The war also solidified the U.S.’s position as a major power in North America, shaping its relationship with Mexico and the rest of the world.

12. How Did the Mexican-American War Impact Mexico?

The Mexican-American War had devastating consequences for Mexico, resulting in the loss of a significant portion of its territory and a lasting impact on its national identity. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo forced Mexico to cede over half of its land to the United States, including valuable territories such as California, New Mexico, and Arizona.

The war also weakened Mexico’s economy and political stability. The loss of territory deprived Mexico of valuable resources and trade routes, hindering its economic development. The war also deepened internal divisions within Mexico, contributing to political instability and future conflicts. The Mexican-American War remains a significant historical event in Mexico, remembered as a national humiliation and a symbol of foreign intervention.

13. What Was the Role of Slavery in the Mexican-American War?

Slavery played a significant and complex role in the Mexican-American War. The issue of slavery was a major point of contention in the United States at the time, and the acquisition of new territories from Mexico raised the question of whether these territories would be free or slave states. This question intensified the sectional tensions between the North and the South, contributing to the growing divide that would eventually lead to the Civil War.

Proponents of slavery sought to expand the institution into the new territories, while abolitionists and those opposed to the expansion of slavery fought to keep these areas free. The Wilmot Proviso, a proposal to ban slavery in any territory acquired from Mexico, sparked a fierce debate in Congress and highlighted the deep divisions over the issue. The Mexican-American War, therefore, became intertwined with the slavery debate, shaping the political landscape of the United States and influencing the course of future events.

14. How Did the War Affect Mexican-Americans Living in the Ceded Territories?

The Mexican-American War and the subsequent Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo had a profound and often negative impact on Mexican-Americans living in the ceded territories. While the treaty guaranteed them U.S. citizenship and the protection of their property rights, these promises were often not upheld in practice.

Many Mexican-Americans faced discrimination, loss of land, and cultural marginalization. Anglo-American settlers often disregarded their property rights, leading to legal battles and dispossession. Mexican-American culture and language were often suppressed, and they faced prejudice in employment, education, and social interactions. Despite these challenges, Mexican-Americans persevered, maintaining their cultural identity and fighting for their rights in the face of adversity.

15. What Were the Long-Term Consequences of the Mexican-American War?

The long-term consequences of the Mexican-American War were far-reaching and continue to shape the relationship between the United States and Mexico today. The war resulted in a significant shift in the balance of power in North America, with the U.S. emerging as a dominant force and Mexico facing economic and political challenges.

The war also had a lasting impact on the cultural and demographic landscape of the southwestern United States. The large influx of Anglo-American settlers transformed the region, leading to cultural clashes and social tensions. The legacy of the war continues to be debated and reinterpreted, influencing discussions about immigration, border security, and the rights of Mexican-Americans. The Mexican-American War remains a pivotal event in the history of both nations, shaping their identities and their relationship for generations to come.

16. How Did the Mexican-American War Influence the American Civil War?

The Mexican-American War significantly influenced the American Civil War by exacerbating the tensions surrounding slavery. The acquisition of vast new territories from Mexico reignited the debate over whether these territories would be free or slave states, intensifying the divide between the North and the South.

The issue of slavery in the territories became a central point of contention, with various proposals and compromises failing to resolve the conflict. The Wilmot Proviso, the Compromise of 1850, and the Kansas-Nebraska Act all attempted to address the issue but ultimately failed to prevent the escalation of tensions. The Mexican-American War, therefore, served as a catalyst, accelerating the events that would eventually lead to the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861. Additionally, many of the military leaders who gained experience in the Mexican-American War, such as Ulysses S. Grant, Robert E. Lee, and Stonewall Jackson, went on to become prominent figures in the Civil War.

17. What is the Legacy of the Mexican-American War Today?

The legacy of the Mexican-American War is complex and multifaceted, continuing to resonate in contemporary discussions about identity, borders, and social justice. The war is remembered differently in the United States and Mexico, with varying interpretations of its significance and impact.

In the United States, the war is often viewed as a triumph of Manifest Destiny, a symbol of American expansion and national pride. However, it is also recognized as a controversial event, marked by the exploitation and displacement of Mexican-Americans and the exacerbation of sectional tensions over slavery. In Mexico, the war is remembered as a national humiliation, a symbol of foreign intervention and the loss of a significant portion of its territory. The war continues to influence discussions about immigration, border security, and the rights of Mexican-Americans, shaping the cultural and political landscape of both nations.

18. How Can I Learn More About the Mexican-American War?

To learn more about the Mexican-American War, there are numerous resources available, including books, documentaries, museums, and online archives. Some recommended books include “A Wicked War: Polk, Clay, Lincoln, and the 1846 U.S. Invasion of Mexico” by Amy S. Greenberg, “So Far From God: United States War with Mexico, 1846-1848” by John Eisenhower, and “The U.S.-Mexican War: A Binational Reader” edited by Douglas W. Richmond.

Documentaries such as “The Mexican-American War” by PBS offer a comprehensive overview of the conflict. Museums like the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Mexican Art feature exhibits related to the war. Online resources such as the Library of Congress and the National Archives provide access to primary source documents and historical records. By exploring these resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the causes, events, and consequences of the Mexican-American War.

19. What Role Did Racism Play in the Mexican-American War?

Racism played a significant role in the Mexican-American War, influencing attitudes and justifications for the conflict. Many Americans held prejudiced views of Mexicans, perceiving them as racially inferior and culturally backward. These racist attitudes were used to justify the expansion of American territory at the expense of Mexico.

The belief in Manifest Destiny was often intertwined with racist ideologies, with proponents arguing that it was America’s duty to civilize and uplift the Mexican population. American soldiers and leaders often exhibited discriminatory behavior towards Mexican civilians and soldiers, perpetuating stereotypes and contributing to violence. The war, therefore, was not only a territorial conflict but also a manifestation of deeply ingrained racial prejudices that shaped the relationship between the United States and Mexico. According to historian Amy Greenberg, racist attitudes that saw Mexicans as racial inferiors and anti-Catholic bigotry enabled American soldiers and leaders to justify extreme violence and what we would now regard as war crimes against Mexican forces and civilians.

20. What Were Some Voices of Dissent Against the Mexican-American War?

Despite widespread support for the Mexican-American War, there were notable voices of dissent who opposed the conflict on moral and political grounds. These voices included politicians, intellectuals, and ordinary citizens who questioned the justifications for the war and criticized the expansionist policies of the Polk administration.

Abraham Lincoln, then a U.S. Congressman, famously challenged the war by demanding proof that the spot where the war began was on U.S. soil. Transcendentalist Henry David Thoreau engaged in civil disobedience, going to jail because he refused to pay federal taxes that supported the war. Other prominent figures like Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison spoke out against the war, condemning it as an unjust and immoral act of aggression. These voices of dissent highlight the complex and contested nature of the war, challenging the dominant narrative and offering alternative perspectives on its causes and consequences.

21. How Did the Mexican-American War Affect LGBTQ+ Individuals of Mexican Descent?

The Mexican-American War’s impact on LGBTQ+ individuals of Mexican descent is a complex and under-explored area. Historically, attitudes toward gender and sexuality in Mexican culture differed from those in the United States. The imposition of American norms and legal structures following the war likely affected traditional social roles and expressions of identity.

The loss of land and cultural disruption experienced by Mexican-Americans also impacted LGBTQ+ individuals within these communities, potentially leading to the suppression of traditional practices or increased marginalization. Further research is needed to fully understand the specific experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals of Mexican descent during this period. Sites like gaymexico.net aim to provide resources and foster understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences within the context of Mexican and Mexican-American history and culture.

22. What resources does gaymexico.net offer to learn more about LGBTQ+ culture in Mexico?

Gaymexico.net offers a wealth of resources for those interested in exploring LGBTQ+ culture in Mexico, including travel guides, community spotlights, and historical insights. You can find information on LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, events, and businesses across Mexico.

The website also features articles and stories that delve into the history and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals in Mexico, providing valuable context and perspective. Whether you are planning a trip, seeking to connect with the LGBTQ+ community in Mexico, or simply interested in learning more about its rich cultural heritage, gaymexico.net provides a comprehensive and engaging platform to explore.

23. How did the California Gold Rush Change the Region after the Mexican-American War?

The California Gold Rush, beginning in 1848 shortly after the end of the Mexican-American War, dramatically transformed the region. The discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill led to a massive influx of migrants from around the world, turning California into a boomtown. This rapid population growth had profound economic, social, and political consequences.

Economically, the Gold Rush fueled rapid development, creating new industries and opportunities but also leading to environmental degradation and economic inequality. Socially, the influx of diverse populations resulted in cultural clashes and tensions, particularly between Anglo-Americans and Mexican-Americans. Politically, the Gold Rush accelerated California’s path to statehood, but also raised contentious issues related to slavery and representation. The Gold Rush fundamentally reshaped California, leaving a lasting legacy on its demographics, economy, and culture.

24. How did the Mexican American war affect the relationship between the United States and Mexico today?

The Mexican-American War profoundly shaped the relationship between the United States and Mexico, leaving a complex legacy that continues to influence their interactions today. The war resulted in Mexico ceding a significant portion of its territory to the United States, which created lasting resentment and distrust.

The war also contributed to the economic and political disparities between the two nations, with the United States emerging as a dominant power and Mexico facing ongoing challenges. Issues related to immigration, border security, and trade continue to be shaped by the historical context of the war. Despite these challenges, the United States and Mexico have also developed strong economic and cultural ties, with significant cooperation on issues such as security and environmental protection. The relationship between the two nations remains complex, marked by both conflict and cooperation.

25. What were the motivations of the American soldiers during the Mexican-American War?

The motivations of American soldiers during the Mexican-American War were diverse and complex, ranging from patriotic fervor to economic opportunity. Many soldiers were driven by a belief in Manifest Destiny, seeing the war as a chance to expand American territory and spread democracy.

Others were motivated by the promise of land and economic advancement, particularly in the newly acquired territories. Some soldiers were drawn to the adventure and excitement of military service, while others were simply seeking a way to escape poverty or hardship. The motivations of American soldiers were also influenced by racial prejudices and anti-Mexican sentiments, which contributed to the mistreatment of Mexican civilians and soldiers. The combination of these factors shaped the experiences and actions of American soldiers during the war.

26. What was the Role of Women in the Mexican-American War?

Women played diverse and often overlooked roles in the Mexican-American War. While most women did not serve as soldiers, they supported the war effort in various ways. Some women accompanied their husbands or family members who were soldiers, providing domestic labor, nursing the wounded, and offering emotional support.

Other women worked as nurses, cooks, and laundresses for the military. Women also played a role in the political and social debates surrounding the war, with some supporting the war effort and others speaking out against it. Mexican women living in the ceded territories faced unique challenges, including the loss of their land, cultural disruption, and discrimination. The contributions and experiences of women during the Mexican-American War highlight the diverse ways in which they shaped the conflict and its aftermath.

27. How Did the Mexican-American War Influence American Art and Literature?

The Mexican-American War had a notable influence on American art and literature, inspiring a range of creative works that reflected the complex and often contradictory attitudes towards the conflict. Artists and writers grappled with themes of expansion, national identity, and the moral implications of war.

Some works celebrated American heroism and the triumph of Manifest Destiny, while others critiqued the war as an unjust and imperialistic endeavor. Literary figures like Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson expressed their opposition to the war through their writings, while artists such as George Caleb Bingham captured scenes of military life and the American frontier. The Mexican-American War, therefore, served as a catalyst for creative expression, shaping the cultural landscape of the United States and prompting a reevaluation of its values and ideals.

28. What were the Economic Factors that Contributed to the Mexican-American War?

Economic factors played a significant role in the lead-up to the Mexican-American War. The United States was eager to expand its economic influence and access to resources in the western territories, particularly California, which was rich in natural resources and strategically located for trade with Asia.

American merchants and entrepreneurs sought to exploit these opportunities, but their efforts were often hampered by Mexican regulations and political instability. The desire to secure these economic advantages fueled American expansionist ambitions and contributed to the growing tensions with Mexico. The war, therefore, can be seen as a conflict over economic resources and the control of trade routes, with the United States seeking to assert its dominance in the region.

29. How Can Visiting Historical Sites Help Understand the Mexican-American War?

Visiting historical sites related to the Mexican-American War can provide a tangible and immersive way to understand the conflict. These sites offer a glimpse into the events, people, and places that shaped the war, allowing visitors to connect with history in a meaningful way.

Sites like the Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park, the site of the first major battle of the war, offer exhibits, ranger-led tours, and interpretive programs that help visitors understand the events that unfolded there. Other sites, such as the Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City, offer a perspective on the war from the Mexican side. By visiting these historical sites, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the Mexican-American War and its lasting impact on both nations.

30. What were the Different Perspectives on the Mexican-American War in the U.S. and Mexico?

The Mexican-American War is viewed very differently in the United States and Mexico, reflecting the contrasting experiences and historical narratives of each nation. In the United States, the war is often seen as a triumph of Manifest Destiny, a symbol of American expansion and national pride.

However, there is also a growing recognition of the war’s negative consequences, including the exploitation and displacement of Mexican-Americans and the exacerbation of sectional tensions over slavery. In Mexico, the war is remembered as a national humiliation, a symbol of foreign intervention and the loss of a significant portion of its territory. The war is often seen as a defining moment in Mexican history, shaping its national identity and its relationship with the United States. Understanding these different perspectives is crucial for fostering a more nuanced and informed understanding of the war and its legacy.

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FAQ: Understanding the Mexican-American War

1. What was the primary cause of the Mexican-American War? The main cause was the dispute over the Texas-Mexico border, with the U.S. claiming the Rio Grande and Mexico asserting the Nueces River as the boundary.
2. How did the annexation of Texas lead to the war? Mexico never recognized Texas’s independence and viewed the U.S. annexation as an act of aggression.
3. What role did Manifest Destiny play in the conflict? Manifest Destiny fueled American expansionist desires and justified acquiring Mexican territories.
4. What was President Polk’s goal leading up to the war? Polk aimed to acquire California and other western territories, provoking Mexico into war to achieve this.
5. What was the Thornton Affair, and how did it trigger the war? The Thornton Affair was an ambush of U.S. soldiers in disputed territory, which Polk used to justify a declaration of war.
6. What territory was disputed between the U.S. and Mexico? The disputed territory was the land between the Nueces River and the Rio Grande, known as the Nueces Strip.
7. What were the terms of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo? Mexico ceded vast territories to the U.S., and the U.S. paid Mexico $15 million.
8. How did the war impact Mexican-Americans in the ceded territories? Many faced discrimination, loss of land, and cultural marginalization despite treaty promises.
9. How did the Mexican-American War influence the American Civil War? The war exacerbated tensions over slavery in new territories, contributing to the Civil War.
10. What is the legacy of the Mexican-American War today? The war continues to influence discussions about identity, borders, and social justice in both the U.S. and Mexico.