The Mexican-American War happened from April 25, 1846, to February 2, 1848, and was about a disagreement between Mexico and the United States over land, especially Texas. Mexico believed the border between them was at the Nueces River, while the U.S. thought it should be at the Rio Grande after Texas joined the Union in 1845. Things got heated when Mexican troops fired on American soldiers at the Rio Grande, leading to the start of the war. This conflict changed the borders of North America forever.
From the United States' point of view, the war was seen as part of a larger idea called Manifest Destiny. This idea meant that Americans believed they were meant to expand across the continent and spread their way of life. President James K. Polk claimed that Mexico's actions were putting the U.S. at risk, arguing that “the soil was ours on which hostilities were commenced by Mexico,” (Lincoln, 1848) which justified a defensive stance. Many Americans thought that gaining new land was necessary for their growing population and economy, especially in places like California and New Mexico, which were seen as important for farming and trade.
However, Mexico viewed the war very differently. They saw it as an invasion by the United States that violated their rights as a country. Mexican leaders argued that the annexation of Texas was illegal “because it went against a treaty that recognized Mexico’s control over that land.” (Texas State Library and Archives Commission, n.d) For Mexico, this war was about protecting their country’s honor and stopping the U.S. from taking more of their land. They felt that without a declaration of war, they were just trying to defend themselves from American aggression.
To decide whether the Mexican-American War was justified, we need to think about both sides. From the U.S. perspective, the war made sense as a way to expand and provide for a growing nation. But this way of thinking often ignores Mexico's rights and sovereignty. As noted in the reflections after the war, many Mexicans turned introspective and blamed themselves, stating, “Mexico might have gotten what it deserved.” (Corkwood, 2000) On the other hand, Mexico's fight against U.S. expansion was about protecting their territory and dignity, making the war feel unfair to them. So, while the U.S. had reasons for going to war, it doesn't completely justify their actions because it overlooked the rights of another country.
In conclusion, the Mexican-American War shows us how complicated and messy expansion can be. While the U.S. justified their actions based on growth and opportunity, Mexico felt their nation was being attacked and disrespected. It’s clear that the war had serious consequences, and calling it justified is not easy. Understanding both perspectives helps us see that the motivations for war are often tangled and can lead to significant changes in history.
To assess your essay using the provided rubric, let's break down your work according to each criterion and assign points based on the descriptions given:
Evidence (4 points): Your essay includes multiple pieces of evidence (from Lincoln, Texas State Library, and Corkwood) that support your argument.
Points awarded: 4
Accuracy (4 points): All the facts presented in your essay appear to be accurate and relevant to the discussion about the Mexican-American War.
Points awarded: 4
Analysis (4 points): You provide a clear and developed analysis of both perspectives regarding the war, effectively connecting the evidence to your authorial position.
Points awarded: 4
Citation of Evidence (4 points): You have correctly cited the sources of your evidence, making it clear where your information comes from.
Points awarded: 4
Continuity (4 points): Your argument maintains logical focus throughout the essay, with good connections between evidence and the central argument.
Points awarded: 4
Presentation (4 points): The presentation is appropriate for the task, purpose, and audience. The tone and language used fit academic writing standards.
Points awarded: 4
Conventions (4 points): Your essay demonstrates a strong command of writing conventions, including correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
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