In the 1800s, the United States was involved in several military conflicts, one of which was the Mexican-American War. This war, fought between 1846 and 1848, had lasting implications for both countries involved and played a significant role in the lead-up to the Civil War. The conflict arose from tensions over the annexation of Texas and disputes over the southern border of the newly independent Republic of Texas.
To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, candidates have to take a test. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services is planning to implement a new history section on the test that will include questions about the Mexican-American War. This decision reflects the war's importance in shaping American identity and history.
May marks two key anniversaries in the conflict between the United States and Mexico that set in motion the Civil War—and led to the establishment of Texas and California as part of the United States. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ceded a vast amount of territory to the United States, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Wyoming.
The Department of Defense is America's oldest and largest government agency, tracing its roots back to pre-Revolutionary times. Learn about key moments in the Mexican-American War, which saw the U.S. military in action against a foreign power on its own soil.
The role of slavery in bringing on the Civil War has been hotly debated for decades. One important way of approaching the issue is to look at how the Mexican-American War intensified tensions between the North and South over the expansion of slavery into newly acquired territories.
Imperialism, nationalistic pride, and mutual alliances all played a part in building tensions that would erupt into war. The Mexican-American War was fueled by the belief in Manifest Destiny, the idea that the United States was destined to expand across the continent. This expansionist mindset contributed to conflicts with Mexico over land and sovereignty.
The United States Army honors Asian American and Pacific Islander Soldiers who have proudly served in honor of defending America's freedom. During the Mexican-American War, Asian American and Pacific Islander soldiers played a crucial role in various battles, showcasing their bravery and dedication to their country.
Abortion has been part of the full range of reproductive health care since the beginning of the United States. Learn the history of how women's roles in society shifted during the Mexican-American War, as they took on new responsibilities while men were away fighting.
More than 100 Native Hawaiians fought in America's bloodiest war. Finding out what happened to them is a near-impossible task, as their stories have often been overlooked in historical accounts of the Mexican-American War. Recognizing their contributions is essential in understanding the full scope of this conflict.
TIME asked 25 historians to each pick one moment that changed the course of American history. The results may surprise you, as many historians point to key events during the Mexican-American War as shaping the future trajectory of the United States and its relations with neighboring countries.
In conclusion, the Mexican-American War was a pivotal conflict in 19th-century U.S. history, with far-reaching consequences for both the United States and Mexico. By examining the causes, outcomes, and legacies of this war, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex forces at play during this tumultuous period.
