Question
very simply summarize the events that led up to the mexican american war
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GPT-4o mini
The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) was primarily fueled by territorial disputes and the idea of Manifest Destiny. Key events leading up to the war include:
1. **Annexation of Texas (1845)**: After gaining independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas was annexed by the United States, which angered Mexico as it still considered Texas part of its territory.
2. **Border Disputes**: The U.S. claimed the Rio Grande as the southern border of Texas, while Mexico claimed it was the Nueces River further north.
3. **Military Tensions**: In 1846, President James K. Polk sent troops led by General Zachary Taylor to the disputed area between the two rivers. This move escalated tensions.
4. **Skirmish at Palo Alto**: Clashes between U.S. troops and Mexican forces began in April 1846, culminating in a significant battle at Palo Alto.
5. **Declaration of War**: Following the skirmishes, President Polk asked Congress for a declaration of war on May 11, 1846, citing concerns for American lives and property. Congress approved the declaration shortly after.
These events created a backdrop of conflict that led to the formal outbreak of the war.
1. **Annexation of Texas (1845)**: After gaining independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas was annexed by the United States, which angered Mexico as it still considered Texas part of its territory.
2. **Border Disputes**: The U.S. claimed the Rio Grande as the southern border of Texas, while Mexico claimed it was the Nueces River further north.
3. **Military Tensions**: In 1846, President James K. Polk sent troops led by General Zachary Taylor to the disputed area between the two rivers. This move escalated tensions.
4. **Skirmish at Palo Alto**: Clashes between U.S. troops and Mexican forces began in April 1846, culminating in a significant battle at Palo Alto.
5. **Declaration of War**: Following the skirmishes, President Polk asked Congress for a declaration of war on May 11, 1846, citing concerns for American lives and property. Congress approved the declaration shortly after.
These events created a backdrop of conflict that led to the formal outbreak of the war.