Texas annexation annexed by Congress

Answer 1

The annexation of Texas by Congress refers to the process through which Texas joined the United States as its 28th state. It was annexed by an act of Congress on December 29, 1845.

Texas had declared independence from Mexico in 1836 and operated as an independent republic for nearly 10 years. However, it desired to become a part of the United States due to various reasons, including concerns over stability and security.

The annexation process faced some opposition, particularly from those who feared it would lead to the expansion of slavery as Texas was a slaveholding territory. This was an important factor in delaying the annexation as it would disrupt the balance between slave and free states in Congress. The issue ultimately led to the Mexican-American War in 1846.

Despite the opposition, Congress passed a joint resolution in early 1845, acknowledging Texas' request for annexation. President John Tyler signed the resolution, and on July 4, 1845, Texas accepted the offer to join the Union. The final step was the formal approval by the Texas voters in October 1845.

Upon its annexation, Texas became a U.S. state, with its boundaries defined by the annexation act. This act gave Texas the ability to divide into up to four additional states, but Texas chose to remain as one state.

The annexation of Texas by Congress was a significant event in American history, expanding the territory of the United States and setting the stage for future territorial acquisitions.