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Mexican American War
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Texas Admitted to the Union
The Congressional resolution to add Texas to America is signed by President John Tyler. -
US Tries to Buy Land (Slidell and Polk)
President James Polk sends John Slidell to Mexico to try to purchase California and New Mexico from Mexican President Herrera. However, the Mexican press finds out about Slidell and publicly accuse Herrera of being a traitor. To save his reputation, Herrera refuses to negociate with or even meet Slidell. -
US Troops Stationed at Disputed Border
Led by General Zachary Taylor, US forces march south towards the land that America and Mexico both claimed as their own. -
US Declares War
After receiving a letter from General Taylor, which described how the Mexican army had killed members of a US scouting party, President Polk asks Congress to declare war. Congress makes the declaration, allowing 50,000 men and $10 million for the war. -
US Victory (Battle of Monterrey)
After five days of fighting, General Taylor's army captures Monterrey, a strongly defended Mexican city. Despite the 450 casulties, sucess stories spread and new recruits join the American army. -
Mexico City Surrendered
After a few days of fighting to defend their capital, Mexican forces finally surrender and America takes control of Mexico City. -
Treaty of Guadeloupe Hidalgo
Ending months of negociation, Nicholas Trist, President Polk's representative, and Mexican officials sign the Treaty of Guadeloupe Hidalgo, which was then sent to Washington for approval. By the terms of this treaty, Mexico gave up its claims on Texas and ceded New Mexico and most of California to America in exchange for $15 million.
