President Polk's Claims

Question

On May 11, President Polk gave a speech to Congress. Read the following portion of that speech. Then answer the question below.

"But now, after reiterated menaces, Mexico has passed the boundary of the United States, has invaded our territory, and shed American blood upon the American soil. [By attacking the United States,] she has proclaimed that . . . the two nations are now at war."

reiterated menaces: repeated threats
she: Mexico

Question President Polk wanted Congress to declare war on Mexico in response to the attack. What claims did Polk make to support his argument? Select the two answers that apply

A. Mexico will try to end the practice of slavery in Texas.
B. Mexico invaded territory belonging to the United States.
C. Mexico has threatened to take back Florida from the United States.
D. Mexico's attack means that Mexico has already declared war.

Answer 1

The two claims that President Polk made to support his argument for declaring war on Mexico are:

B. Mexico invaded territory belonging to the United States. D. Mexico's attack means that Mexico has already declared war.