Title: Westward Expansion (1807-1912): The Mexican War and Political Aftermath | SparkNotes
Headings: Westward Expansion (1807-1912)
Westward Expansion (1807-1912)
The Mexican War and Political Aftermath
Summary
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Content: Westward Expansion (1807-1912): The Mexican War and Political Aftermath | SparkNotes
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Westward Expansion (1807-1912)
History
Study Guide
Study Guide
Summary
Brief Overview
Overview
Timeline
The Surge West
Land Policy and Speculation
Western Economy: Boom and Panic
Indian Removal
The Transportation Revolution and the Rise of Cities
The Opening of the Far West
Texas
Settling California, New Mexico, and Oregon
Foreign Policy in Texas and Oregon
The Mexican War and Political Aftermath
The Plains Indians
The Transcontinental Railroad and the Admission of Western States
Key People
Key Terms and Events
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Review Test
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Summary
The Mexican War and Political Aftermath
Summary The Mexican War and Political Aftermath
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Summary
When the United States admitted Texas to the Union in 1845, the Mexican government was in such turmoil that the nation's new leader would not even meet with the Americans; they were too weak even to negotiate concessions. Both sides awaited the outbreak of violence. On May 9, 1846, President James K. Polk received word that Mexican forces had ambushed two of General Zachary Taylor's companies along the Rio Grande. He immediately demanded that Congress appropriate funds for war, proclaiming that the Mexicans had initiated a full- blown conflict. Somewhat reluctantly, Congress agreed, and the Mexican War began.