The Mexican American War

By aydyey
  • Annexation of Texas by the U.S.

    Annexation of Texas by the U.S.

    What happened: The U.S. officially annexed Texas, which Mexico still considered its territory. This was the spark that set off the fuse. Mexico saw it as an act of aggression.
  • The Thorton Affair

    The Thorton Affair

    Mexican cavalry attacked a U.S. patrol north of the Rio Grande, killing or capturing about 70 soldiers. President Polk used this as justification for war, claiming American blood was shed on American soil (even though that was debatable).
  • U.S declares war on Mexico

    U.S declares war on Mexico

    Congress officially declared war on Mexico. Polk had already ordered General Zachary Taylor to move into disputed territory beforehand. They were looking for a reason to start a war.
  • Capture Of Santa Fe

    Capture Of Santa Fe

    General Stephen W. Kearny marched into New Mexico with little resistance and captured Santa Fe without firing a shot. It was a key part of the U.S. strategy to control the West.
  • Battle of Monterrey

    Battle of Monterrey

    General Zachary Taylor's troops fought house-to-house in the northern city of Monterrey. The U.S. won after a brutal siege, but controversially allowed Mexican forces to withdraw peacefully.
  • Battle of Buena Vista

    Battle of Buena Vista

    A heavily outnumbered U.S. force under Taylor defeated Santa Anna's larger army in northern Mexico. It was a turning point and made Taylor a war hero. He even later became president.
  • Siege and Capture of Mexico City

    Siege and Capture of Mexico City

    General Winfield Scott led a bold amphibious invasion, landing at Veracruz and fighting his way inland. The U.S. captured Mexico City, essentially ending the war militarily.
  • Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo signed

    Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo signed

    Mexico was forced to sell many of its territories to America. There was a big land grab for America but also big losses for both sides