The current situation between the United States and Mexico is so serious that I need to bring it to Congress. Earlier this session, I explained the reasons why Mexico stopped talking to us diplomatically in March 1845. For a long time, the Mexican government has harmed U.S. citizens by taking their property and causing other injuries without fixing the problems.

Question

We have tried everything to achieve peace. The U.S. sent a representative to Mexico with the power to settle all disagreements. Even though he went with the agreement of both governments and was prepared to show our good intentions, his efforts failed. Mexico refused to meet with him or listen to his proposals. Instead, after threatening us for a long time, the Mexican government has crossed into our territory and spilled the blood of U.S. citizens on our own land.
1.What is the author of this source’s opinion on the conflict?
2. Provide a quote from the source that you think capture’s the meaning.

Answer 1

1. The author of this source holds a strong opinion that Mexico is acting aggressively and irresponsibly towards the United States, harming U.S. citizens and failing to engage in diplomatic dialogue to resolve conflicts. The author believes that despite attempts to peacefully settle disagreements, Mexico's refusal to cooperate and its aggressive actions have necessitated bringing the situation to Congress.

2. A quote from the source that captures this meaning is: "Instead, after threatening us for a long time, the Mexican government has crossed into our territory and spilled the blood of U.S. citizens on our own land." This illustrates the author's perception of Mexico's aggression and the impact of the conflict on U.S. citizens.