What is the Mexican-American War
What is the Mexican-American War?: The Mexican War began on April 25th, 1846, and lasted until February 2nd, 1848. The main cause of the war was land, specifically over Texas. The United States wanted Texas and was able to annex it in 1845. However, Mexico still claimed Texas and refused to acknowledge it as a U.S. territory. Under the guise of Manifest Destiny, President James K. Polk sought to expand even more after annexing Texas and thus provoked Mexico into the war. In the end, the U.S. won through the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and gained lands now known as Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Arizona.
"The Mexican-American War - Explained in 16 Minutes"
Key Terms
Annexation
The act of adding a territory to an existing political unit, such as a country or state.
Sovereignty
The authority of a state to govern itself or another state; the concept of supreme power.
Cession
The formal giving up of rights, property, or territory by a state or country.
Manifest Destiny
The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.
Expansionism
The policy of territorial or economic expansion, often pursued by a nation to increase its influence and power.
Tension
A state of mental or emotional strain; in this context, the growing conflict between different nations or groups.
Treaty
A formally concluded and ratified agreement between countries, typically ending a conflict or establishing terms of peace.
Revolt
An act of rebellion against authority or government, often involving armed conflict.
Lesson Activities
Activity 1: The Consequences of the War
Activity 2: Mexican-American War Debate
Activity 3: How the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Affects Me
- Link to lesson/activity | https://www.nps.gov/teachers/classrooms/lasting-effects-of-the-treaty-of-guadalupe-hidalgo.htm
- The-Treaty-Today-Student-Worksheet
- Treaty-of-Guadalupe-Hidalgo-Transcript
Activity 4: Perspective Creative Writing: Voices of the War