Mexican American War Research Paper

Words: 1535
Pages: 7

THE MEXICAN-AMERICAN WAR

Andres Pastor HIST-B17A April 11, 2024.

Subtitle What were the economic motivations behind the Mexican-American War and how did they influence the outcome? The economic motivations behind the Mexican-American War were deeply intertwined with the broader context of territorial expansion, manifest destiny, and the desire for economic growth. The war, which took place between 1846 and 1848, was fueled by a complex interplay of factors, including the annexation of Texas, border disputes, and the quest for new territories rich in resources. The United States' pursuit of westward expansion, driven by the ideology of manifest destiny, played a significant role in shaping the economic motivations behind the conflict. The
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Economic factors, such as the acquisition of new land for agriculture, trade routes, and access to resources like gold, played a crucial role in fueling the war. Additionally, the war had profound economic consequences for both Mexico and the United States, shaping their economic landscapes in the aftermath. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the war, led to Mexico ceding vast territories to the U.S., impacting Mexico's economy significantly. Furthermore, the war indirectly contributed to internal debates in the U.S. over slavery expansion and the organization of new states, highlighting how economic interests intertwined with political decisions during this period. "The Mexican-American War was a conflict driven by the expansionist ambitions of the United States, fueled by a desire to acquire new territories and resources. As historian Walter Nugent notes, 'The war was fought primarily for economic reasons - to gain control of the Southwest and California, with their valuable ports, farmlands, and mineral resources.'" This quote supports this because it highlights how the economic incentive to gain control over valuable lands, resources, and trade routes in the American Southwest and California