(The Mexican-American War) - President James Polk was the one who provoked the conflict that started the Mexican American War.

Hi and welcome to my podcast! My name is Valeria and today I’ll be talking about the Mexican America War.

It all started in the 1820s after Mexico gained independence from Spain. Mexico was struggling to develop Texas economically and didn’t want to let its territory up for grabs, so they invited Anglo American settlers to Texas, to control the northern region. In exchange for their services and for following Mexican rules, Mexico granted them free land.  However, Mexico soon found itself in a challenging situation, as the settlers disagreed with the Mexican laws. So they initiated a rebellion for independence, which led to multiple battles and the eventual defeat of Santa Anna. Texas was victorious  and eventually, the state became a part of the US, which created tensions with Mexico.

Tensions continued to escalate when President James Polk, a firm believer in Manifest Destiny, offered to purchase New Mexico and Alta California from Mexico. When Mexico refused, Polk grew angry and decided to provoke a conflict by sending troops into a disputed area between the Rio Grande and Nueces River. This ultimately led to the Mexican American War. After the conflict ended, the US military stayed in the region until the new Mexican government could guarantee peace. Later in 1848, the Guadalupe Hidalgo Treaty was signed.

Unfortunately, this pact generated political instability, and Mexico lost 55% of its land, establishing the current borders. The US paid $15 million and 5 million pesos in compensation for the territories ceded and the Mexican citizens affected. This event marks a historical turning point in the US-Mexico relationship.

This event has impacted American society and others in the way communities on both sides of the border have been influenced. The stream has shaped a natural deterrent that causes the division of families, the disturbance of businesses, and the confinement of communities. The waterway has made it difficult for individuals to get healthcare, instruction, and other essential needs. In addition, the Rio Grande has created a sense of antagonistic vibe between the two countries, which has led to negative results. 

This event has been a topic for years, it's very complex, multifaceted, and even revolves around politics and social issues. This topic has mainly been about whether or not the United States was wrong for taking over Mexican land, which has led to multiple disagreements between Mexicans and Americans. It’s surprising how despite the proximity of these two countries, their differences in economic development, political systems, and cultural values have resulted in a complicated relationship often marked by tension and conflict.

Valeria Yanez Diaz