Early Republic Retest

Early Republic Retest

The war with Mexico in 1846, known as the Mexican-American War,

The war with Mexico in 1846, known as the Mexican-American War, was primarily caused by the annexation of Texas by the United States in 1845. This event heightened tensions between the two nations, as Mexico still considered Texas part of its territory despite its independence in 1836. Additionally, disputes over the southern border of Texas, with the U.S. claiming the Rio Grande and Mexico advocating for the Nueces River as the boundary, further escalated conflicts. When American troops were sent into the disputed area, a skirmish occurred, prompting President James K. Polk to declare war on Mexico, driven by the ideology of Manifest Destiny, which held that the U.S. was destined to expand across the North American continent.

Multiple Choice

What was the cause of this image?

• Sam Houston was removed from office

• the addition of Mexican Cession

• the new tariffs

• the annexation of Texas

Annexation of Texas

President James K. Polk favored annexing Texas for several reasons, primarily tied to his belief in Manifest Destiny and the expansion of the United States. He viewed Texas as a vital territory that would enhance the nation's agricultural and economic potential, particularly for cotton production, which was a significant driver of the economy at the time. Additionally, annexing Texas would strengthen the U.S. position in North America and counterbalance British influence in the region. Polk also believed that bringing Texas into the Union would fulfill the nation's destiny to expand across the continent and spread democracy. Despite the potential for conflict with Mexico, he saw the annexation as an opportunity to grow the United States and promote its ideals, thus making it a key priority during his presidency.

Multiple Choice

Why did the US want to annex Texas?

• to help achieve Manifest Destiny

• to increase sectionalism

• to increase the amount of agriculture in the US

• to bring peace to the US