The Mexican War: The Effect Of Manifest Destiny

During this time in American history America had the growing feeling of Manifest Destiny. This was the desire to expand westward. This westward movement brought many Americans into Mexican territory. At this time Mexico controlled California and most of the southern portions of the western territories. Mexico 's problem was that even though they possessed these territories they did not have a population and large enough Military force to control them. They were unable to dictate or populate the territories so America basically took them over without a fight. Mexico was very frustrated with this predicament they were in, too much territory not enough men to

He was president when the United States achieved its greatest territorial growth. During his presidency, the American flag was raised over most of the area now forming nine Western States, and Texas became a member of the Union. Polk successfully directed the Mexican War, which won much of this territory. He carried out every item of his political program "Of all other American presidents, only George Washington had such a clear record of success " (world book Polk). After President Polk, would be General Zachary Taylor (see figure 3). His courage and leadership made him a national hero. General Taylor won many crucial battles in the beginning middle and end of this war. After the war he used his heroism as a base to become President. He became president but died after 16 months in office. General Scott was next on the political hierarchy. General Scott was one of the best strategists in the war. He was capable of winning as the under-dog at both Conteras and Churubusco. His walked his troops in to Mexico City after he captured it. His biggest victory was when he captured

Conclusions

The Mexican War was fought between the United States and Mexico over disagreements that had been accumulating for two decades. In the course of the war, United States forces invaded Mexico and occupied the capital, Mexico City. By the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, the United States acquired from Mexico the regions of California, Nevada, and Utah, most of Arizona and New Mexico, and parts of Colorado and Wyoming. But many historians believe the war was an unnecessary attack on a weaker nation. I believe that the war was unnecessary. I don 't think it needed to be fought at all and that over time the U.S could have acquired more of the western territory. This was a war fought because of greed not because of oppression or belligerence but on the grounds of greed alone. I do not think that the loss of that many men was necessary to accomplish the goal