What specific event or events led the annexation of Texas to the acquisition of territory

Answer 1

The annexation of Texas and the subsequent acquisition of territory was influenced by several significant events:

1. Texas Revolution (1835-1836): This was a rebellion by the Texan settlers, primarily American immigrants, against the Mexican government's rule over the Mexican state of Texas. The Texans declared their independence and fought for it, ultimately winning the Battle of San Jacinto and establishing the Republic of Texas.

2. Texan Independence and Sam Houston: Following the Texas Revolution, Texas remained an independent republic for nearly a decade. During this period, individuals such as Sam Houston, who served as the President of the Republic of Texas, advocated for annexation into the United States.

3. Manifest Destiny: The ideology of Manifest Destiny, which gained prominence in the 1840s, played a significant role in driving the desire for westward expansion and the acquisition of territory. Many Americans believed that it was their destiny to expand across the continent, from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

4. Treaty of Annexation (1844): Negotiations between the United States and Texas led to the signing of the Treaty of Annexation in 1844. However, due to political complications and concerns about slavery expansion, the treaty failed to receive the necessary approval from the U.S. Senate.

5. James K. Polk's Presidency: James K. Polk, who became the President of the United States in 1845, was a strong proponent of territorial expansion. Under his presidency, the annexation of Texas and the subsequent acquisition of additional territory became a priority.

6. Mexican-American War (1846-1848): The Mexican-American War was a conflict that arose over the disputes regarding the border between Texas and Mexico, among other issues. The war resulted in a significant victory for the United States, leading to the Mexican Cession in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which granted the U.S. vast territory including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and Texas.

Overall, the desire to expand American influence, the Texas Revolution, failed treaty negotiations, and the Mexican-American War were key events that ultimately led to the annexation of Texas and the acquisition of additional territory by the United States.