Kballen. "Map of the Mexican Cession." 6 April 2008. Digital map. Description: The map illustrates the territories ceded by Mexico to the U.S. in 1848 in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, marking the end of the Mexican-American War (1846 – 1848). The land lost amounted to one third of Mexico's total territory, including California and the Southwestern United States. Source: Own work.
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The Mexican Cession:
An Acquisition of New Territory
Introduction:
In 1848, following a war with Mexico, the United States acquired a significant amount of territory known as the Mexican Cession. This land included present-day New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, part of Wyoming, and California. The Mexican Cession had a profound impact on the growth and development of the United States. This literary nonfiction text will explore the background, causes, and consequences of this important event in American history.
Background:
The Mexican Cession was a result of the Mexican-American War, which lasted from 1846 to 1848. The war was primarily fought over territorial disputes between the United States and Mexico. The United States believed in the concept of Manifest Destiny, the idea that it was their destiny to expand westward. The Mexican government, however, saw the annexation of Texas by the United States as a violation of their sovereignty, leading to tensions between the two nations.
Causes:
The main cause of the Mexican-American War was the disagreement over the border between Mexico and Texas. After gaining independence from Spain, Mexico considered Texas a part of its territory. In 1836, Texas declared independence from Mexico and became a republic. Subsequently, Texas sought annexation by the United States. Mexico strongly opposed this move, considering it an act of aggression. The border dispute escalated into armed conflict, resulting in the Mexican-American War.
War and Treaty:
The Mexican-American War began in 1846 and lasted for two years. The United States, under the leadership of President James K. Polk, launched a military campaign to secure the disputed territories. American forces, led by General Zachary Taylor and later General Winfield Scott, won several key battles and advanced into Mexican territory. Ultimately, Mexico was forced to surrender.
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed in 1848, officially ended the war. Under the terms of the treaty, Mexico ceded a vast amount of territory to the United States, including the Mexican Cession. In return, the United States agreed to pay Mexico $15 million and assume approximately $3.25 million in debts owed by Mexico to American citizens.
Consequences:
The Mexican Cession significantly expanded the territorial holdings of the United States. It added over 500,000 square miles of land to the nation, including the present-day states of California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming. This acquisition opened up vast opportunities for westward expansion and settlement.
The Mexican Cession also intensified tensions between the North and the South regarding the issue of slavery. The addition of new territories reignited debates over whether these lands should allow slavery or be free states. This ultimately contributed to the growing divide between the Northern and Southern states, which would later lead to the American Civil War.
Conclusion:
The Mexican Cession of 1848 was a significant event in American history. It expanded the territory of the United States and fueled debates over the expansion of slavery. Understanding the causes and consequences of the Mexican Cession provides valuable insights into the complexities of westward expansion and the challenges faced by the nation during this pivotal period.
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