What was the problem between the US and Mexico that caused the Mexican War?
1 Answer
Mostly the annexation of Texas by the US.
Explanation:
Throughout history, it's almost inevitable that two countries next to each other go to war. In fact, it would be a fun project to find two countries next to each other who didn't.
America already attacked Canada in the War of 1812 when it was still a British colony, so naturally the next thing would be to war with Mexico.
In 1836, after a brief war of independence in which the Texan underdogs beat the Mexicans, Texas gained its independence from Mexico. Americans were at first hesitant to incorporate Texas into the country, but eventually popular support triumphed and in December 1845 Texas became a state. Of course, this angered the Mexicans very much because they still considered Texas their territory.
In 1846, American troops along the Mexican-American border were attacked by Mexican soldiers, starting the war. In Mexico's defense, American President James Polk moved troops into the region, possibly in order to instigate the war. In any case, Mexico's outrage at America's "stealing" of Texas prompted them to attack.
For the next 2 years, the experienced American army defeated the Mexicans seemingly everywhere. Marines even landed in Veracruz, defeating the Mexicans and pushing towards the capital, Mexico City. By the time the Americans were attacking the city, it was clear to everyone that the war was over. In 1848, the war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
