My Summery of The Mexican War
A conflict that occurred as the result of Mexican resentment over the US annexation of Texas and a border dispute, the Mexican-American War represents the only major military dispute between the two nations. The war was fought primarily in northeastern and central Mexico and resulted in a decisive American victory. As a result of the war, Mexico was forced to cede its northern and western provinces, which today comprise a significant portion of the western United States.
Key Points
- After settling Texas and admitting it to the Union in 1845, the U.S. wished to negotiate a settlement deal with Mexico, which had recently won its independence from Spain. Mexico declined to negotiate and the U.S. decided to use force.
- American troops under the command of Zachary Taylor moved toward the Rio Grande, which was to be the border with Mexico. They met resistance from the Mexicans, and the skirmish marked the war's first conflict.
- U.S. troops moved west and claimed Sante Fe, New Mexico (1846) and California (1847).
- Leadership in Mexico changed hands several times during the war and caused confusion within the military. American troops overtook Mexico's weakened army and declared victory.
- The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed in 1848. Mexico gave up two-fifths of its territory and received $15 million from the U.S. for damages