Mexican‑American War

Mexican‑American War

Causes of the Mexican‑American War Texas gained its independence from Mexico in 1836. Initially, the United States declined to incorporate it into the union, largely because northern political interests were against the addition of a new state that supported slavery. The Mexican government was also encouraging border raids and warning that any attempt at annexation […]

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

Mexican‑American War: 1846‑1848 On May 13, 1846, the U.S. Congress voted in favor of President James Polk’s request to declare war on Mexico in a dispute over Texas. Under the threat of war, the United States had refrained from annexing Texas after the latter won independence from Mexico in 1836. But in 1844, President John […]

Bear Flag Revolt

Bear Flag Revolt: Background The political situation in California was tense in 1846. Though controlled by Mexico, California was home to a growing population of American settlers. Mexican leaders worried that many of these settlers were not truly interested in becoming Mexican subjects and would soon push for annexation of California to the United States. […]

This Day in History: 05/13/1846 – President Polk declares war on Mexico

Wilmot Proviso

The election of Abraham Lincoln was a tipping point on the path to Civil War. In the wake of Southern secession, would the new president defend the U.S. forts in rebel territory?

How Many Times Has the US Officially Declared War?

The official declarations of war occurred during five separate military conflicts, starting in 1812 and, most recently, in 1942.

When California (Briefly) Became Its Own Nation

Following the Bear Flag Revolt of 1846, California existed as an independent nation—for 25 days.

See Images of 20 U.S. Presidents Who Served in the Military—in Uniform

From George Washington to Dwight D. Eisenhower to John F. Kennedy, military veterans have risen to the nation’s highest office many times through history.