Mexican-American War Key Concepts

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848, ended the Mexican-American War, favoring the United States. The war began in 1846 over a territorial dispute involving Texas. The treaty expanded US territory by 525,000 square miles, including parts of present-day Arizona, California, and others. Mexico relinquished claims to Texas and recognized the Rio Grande as the US boundary. The war, initiated by President Polk, reignited the slavery debate, leading to the American Civil War. Polk did not seek re-election, and Zachary Taylor, a war hero, became president.

What was the main outcome of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

• It started the Mexican-American War.

• It led to the annexation of Hawaii.

• It ended the Civil War.

• It established the Rio Grande as the southern boundary of the U.S.

When did the U.S. Congress declare war on Mexico?

• May 13, 1846

• March 1, 1845

• February 2, 1848

• December 29, 1845

What was a significant reason for the U.S. Senate's initial rejection of the Texas annexation treaty?

• It would upset the balance between slave and free states.

• It was too costly.

• It was opposed by President Polk.

• It was not supported by Texas.

Which river did Mexico consider the boundary with Texas?

• Colorado River

• Nueces River

• Rio Grande

• Mississippi River

What did the U.S. offer Mexico in exchange for boundary adjustments?

• Annexation of Texas

• Settlement of American citizens' claims

• Military support

• A peace treaty

How much territory did the U.S. gain from the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

• 50,000 square miles

• 100,000 square miles

• 525,000 square miles

• 1,000,000 square miles

What was the financial compensation paid by the U.S. to Mexico under the treaty?

• $5 million

• $10 million

• $15 million

• $20 million

What major debate was reignited in the U.S. as a result of the Mexican-American War?

• The debate over immigration

• The debate over prohibition

• The debate over slavery extension

• The debate over women's suffrage

Who became a national hero during the Mexican-American War and later became president?

• James Polk

• John Tyler

• Zachary Taylor

• John Slidell

What happened to President Polk after his term ended?

• He died three months after leaving office.

• He became a senator.

• He retired and lived a long life.

• He was re-elected.