The Mexican-American War lasted from 1846 to 1848 and had several key events during its course. Here is an overview of the major events:
1. Cause: Tensions arose between the United States and Mexico over the annexation of Texas. The U.S. saw the Rio Grande as the southern border of Texas, while Mexico believed it to be the Nueces River, leading to a disputed territory.
2. Initial conflicts: In 1846, after the annexation of Texas, American forces under General Zachary Taylor clashed with Mexican troops near the disputed border area. These encounters resulted in the Thornton Affair and the Battles of Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma.
3. Declaration of war: On May 13, 1846, the United States declared war on Mexico after failed diplomatic efforts to resolve the territorial dispute.
4. U.S. military success: The U.S. army achieved several victories against the Mexican forces. General Taylor's army captured Monterrey and won the Battle of Buena Vista in northern Mexico, while another American force under General Winfield Scott landed at Veracruz and successfully besieged the city.
5. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo: In 1848, as the Mexican government faced military defeats and internal turmoil, negotiations led to the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. This treaty ended the war, with Mexico recognizing Texas as part of the United States and ceding territory including California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Oklahoma to the U.S.
6. Consequences: The war brought significant territorial gains for the United States, expanding its territory to the Pacific Coast. It also sparked debates about the expansion of slavery in newly acquired territories and strained relations between the two nations for years to come.
Overall, the Mexican-American War involved several military engagements and culminated in a U.S. victory, which significantly shaped the borders and future of both countries.
What was the course of the Mexican American war since it lasted for 2 yrs
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