DBQ The Mexican War
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In 1845 the Mexican War began when American soldiers were fired upon in alleged United States territory. The war would last three years, claim the lives of thirteen thousand Americans and bring California, Texas and other territories into the Union. Superficially, the war was fought in the interests of pro-Texas Southerners in order to acquire coveted territories. However, in examining the situation more closely, it can be said that the war was fought in the common interest of spreading American democracy as justified by "manifest destiny" and its ideals of racial superiority.
In the mid-1800's, Americans suddenly became obsessed with the idea of acquiring all the land in North America and eventually conquering the entire western hemisphere. Pioneers traveled from east to west in search of virgin lands, justifying their actions by "manifest destiny" (the belief that Americans are destined to conquer all lands and spread their ways to every corner of the hemisphere). Leading up to 1845, the United States had attempted to acquire California through the peaceful medium of money. However, when the Mexican government turned down his offer, President Polk was forced to find a different solution. Unwilling to make the first hostile move, he placed his troops in "no man's land" and waited for a Mexican strike. It eventually came (though only questionably within United States territory (document K)), and Polk immediately declared war...