History: Mexican-American War

       The Mexican-American War was an important battle and had quite the impact on the history of the United States as well as on the history of Mexico. Although the war has long since been over, the effects of it can still be seen and felt today.
       The cause of this war is mostly credited to the imperialistic attitude of the United States. After gaining Louisiana, Virginia, and Florida, America was greedy for more. They looked to the land of the Mexicans which was being sold at cheap rates to attract American settlers. Those Americans who had settled in Mexican-owned Texas wanted their independence, so they revolted in 1835. U.S. President Polk officially declared war on Mexico in May of 1846. He thought that Mexico would feel threatened and allow the U.S. to annex California and Texas. That, however, did not happen, and General Taylor ruthlessly crushed the Mexican resistance. Taylor continued to win battles, including the Battle of Buena Vista and the Battle of Cero Gordo. In 1847, the Mexican defeat is obvious, and President Polk arranges for peacemaking. However, Mexican leader Santa Anna refuses to give up, and the war continues for a few more months. Then in February of 1848, the U.S. wins the batttle and the Negotiation treaty is signed.
       In the end, the U.S. aquired Texas and the northern half of Mexico which included, California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. However, relations between the U.S. and Mexico remained tense for decades and resulted in several military encounters along the border. Even today, bitter feelings still remain toward the U.S. in the hearts of some Mexican citizens.