Mexican-American War Key Concepts

In 1846, the USA sought war with Mexico to expand its territory. After provoking Mexico, the USA engaged in battles, leading to the annexation of California and New Mexico. Santa Anna returned to lead Mexican forces but was ultimately defeated. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the war, with Mexico losing half its territory. The war's aftermath saw increased US patriotism and territorial expansion, but it also contributed to tensions leading to the American Civil War.

What was President James Polk's vision for the USA?

• To focus on industrial development

• To form an alliance with Mexico

• To expand from sea to shining sea

• To maintain the current borders

Why did the USA need an excuse to go to war with Mexico?

• To support Mexican independence

• To justify breaking a previous agreement

• To defend against a Mexican invasion

• To gain control of Canadian territories

What event marked the beginning of hostilities between the USA and Mexico?

• The signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

• Mexican troops crossing the Rio Grande

• The capture of San Francisco

• The annexation of Texas

How did the USA justify declaring war on Mexico?

• By claiming Mexican aggression

• By citing economic interests

• By seeking revenge for past conflicts

• By responding to a European threat

What was the outcome of the initial battles in the Mexican-American War?

• Mexico gained control of Texas

• The USA gained control of disputed territories

• The war ended in a stalemate

• Both sides agreed to a ceasefire

What was Santa Anna's role upon returning to Mexico?

• To seek asylum in another country

• To establish a new government

• To lead the Mexican resistance

• To negotiate peace with the USA

What strategy did Santa Anna employ against the advancing American forces?

• He launched a naval attack

• He attempted to outflank them

• He sought an alliance with European powers

• He relied on yellow fever to weaken them

What was the significance of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

• It resulted in Mexico losing over half its territory

• It ended the American Civil War

• It established a new alliance between the USA and Mexico

• It led to the annexation of Canada

How did the Mexican-American War impact the USA?

• It caused a diplomatic rift with Europe

• It resulted in economic recession

• It contributed to the onset of the American Civil War

• It led to a decline in patriotism

What was one of the long-term effects of the Mexican-American War on Mexico?

• It resulted in political stability

• It led to a period of economic prosperity

• It strengthened its military alliances

• It caused ongoing instability and foreign invasion