Polk's Message on the Mexican-American War
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Questions and Answers

What was the main purpose of President Polk's message to Congress?

  • To celebrate the diplomatic relations with Mexico.
  • To discuss the state of relations and call for considerations regarding war. (correct)
  • To recount the peaceful negotiations held with Mexico.
  • To request funding for military expansion.

What incident prompted President Polk to call for a discussion in Congress?

  • The successful negotiation of boundary adjustments.
  • The refusal of the Mexican Government to accept Mr. Slidell.
  • The invasion of US territory and the shedding of American blood. (correct)
  • The signing of a peace treaty between the US and Mexico.

Who was sent to Mexico as an envoy to resolve the differences?

  • General Herrera.
  • Mr. Slidell. (correct)
  • President Polk.
  • An unnamed military leader.

What was Polk's stance on the claims of US citizens against Mexico?

<p>They were integral to the boundary question settlement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach did Polk advocate for in dealings with Mexico?

<p>Negotiation on equitable terms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of Mr. Slidell's attempts to negotiate in Mexico?

<p>His mission failed due to refusal from the Mexican Government. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factors did Polk imply contributed to the war with Mexico?

<p>Acts of aggression by Mexico and unresolved grievances. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition of the Mexican Government was noted by Polk regarding Mr. Slidell's arrival?

<p>It was experiencing turmoil and instability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Polk's attitude toward the prolonged struggles of US citizens against the Mexican Government?

<p>He supported their claims and emphasized their resolution. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the mobilization of the military force between the Nueces and the Del Norte?

<p>To prepare for a possible threat of invasion by Mexican forces (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What directive was given to the commanding general regarding actions toward Mexico?

<p>To remain peaceful unless under direct attack (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the posture of the Mexican forces at Matamoras towards the U.S. Army?

<p>Belligerent and confrontational (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

On what date did the U.S. Army arrive on the left bank of the Del Norte?

<p>March 28 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What ultimatum did General Ampudia issue to General Taylor?

<p>To retreat beyond the Nueces River (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant event occurred before any acts of hostility were committed?

<p>An announcement of war was made by Mexico (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What responsibility did the Army have regarding private property?

<p>To protect it and respect personal rights (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What resolution led Texas to seek annexation to the United States?

<p>A solemn resolution of the Congress of the United States (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the date on which General Ampudia issued his ultimatum?

<p>April 12 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the primary military preparations made by the U.S. before the mobilization?

<p>Preparing defenses for the citizens of Texas (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary action did the revolutionary party take concerning relations with the United States?

<p>They aimed to hasten their overthrow by using the Texas question. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was General Herrera's government's main failing regarding Mr. Slidell?

<p>They refused to accredit him on frivolous pretexts. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did General Paredes gain power in Mexico?

<p>Via a military revolution without public struggle. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action did Mr. Slidell take after being denied by the Mexican minister?

<p>He demanded his passport and returned to the United States. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the nature of the changes in Mexico's government following General Paredes' rise to power?

<p>The existing constitutional authorities were subverted. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the consequence of the failed diplomatic attempt by Mr. Slidell?

<p>It resulted in a prolongation of the diplomatic dispute. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the government of Mexico promise to do in October regarding the American envoy?

<p>To receive and accredit an American envoy. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of power transition occurred in Mexico during this period?

<p>The authority was seized through a military coup. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the public's involvement in the transition of power to General Paredes?

<p>The revolution occurred with little involvement from the public. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did Mr. Slidell think it necessary to present his credentials to General Paredes?

<p>He was directed to seek diplomatic recognition. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What prompted General Arista to declare the commencement of hostilities?

<p>Mexican troops had invaded American territory (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the fate of the American party of dragoons during their engagement?

<p>They were surrounded and compelled to surrender (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately reflects the situation of American commerce with Mexico?

<p>Commerce between the two nations has faced significant challenges (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the response of the American government to Mexico's actions prior to hostilities?

<p>They sought to negotiate peaceful resolutions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Mexico respond to Texas's unification with the United States?

<p>They threatened military action against the United States (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the statement about the 'cup of forbearance' signify?

<p>The US patience has reached its limit (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was one consequence of Mexico's actions against American citizens?

<p>Deterred American merchants from conducting trade (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes General Taylor's military positioning?

<p>He mobilized forces in preparation for imminent battle (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role did prior treaties have in the conflict with Mexico?

<p>They were disregarded by both parties leading to conflict (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the skirmish involving the dragoons?

<p>The dragoons suffered casualties and were forced to surrender (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of invoking Congress's authority in relation to the war?

<p>To recognize the existence of the war. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is emphasized as a key advantage of a volunteer force compared to other military units?

<p>Greater efficiency and enthusiasm. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the speaker express anxiety about regarding the war?

<p>The urgency of concluding peace talks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action does the speaker recommend for the military to ensure a successful outcome in the conflict with Mexico?

<p>Establishing a large and overpowering military presence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the speaker intend to do when Mexico is ready to negotiate?

<p>Renew negotiations with proposals of their own. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one recommended provision for sustaining the military force?

<p>Ensuring ample supplies and munitions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mexican-American War

Conflict between the United States and Mexico, beginning in [Date]

Diplomatic Relations with Mexico

Formal communication and negotiation between governments of the U.S. and Mexico.

President Polk's Message

President Polk's address to Congress about the start of the Mexican-American War, providing context.

US Envoy to Mexico

A representative of the US sent to Mexico to settle disputes.

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Boundary Dispute

Disagreement between the U.S. and Mexico regarding the border between the countries.

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Slidell Mission

The failed attempt of John Slidell to negotiate with Mexico about the boundary and claims.

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Mexican Government's Actions

Refusal to receive the US envoy and attacks on US territory.

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US Citizen Claims

Longstanding financial claims of US citizens against the Mexican government.

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Diplomatic Intercourse Suspension

The temporary halt of formal communication (between countries)

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Texas Question

Dispute between the US and Mexico regarding Texas's annexation.

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Revolution in Mexico

Military coup that led to the overthrow of the Herrera government in December.

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Herrera's Government

Mexican government led by General Herrera, sincere in wanting to receive the US minister.

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Paredes's Government

Mexican government led by General Paredes, formed after a military takeover.

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Refusal to Accredit

Mexico's rejection of the US envoy (Mr. Slidell) despite prior commitments.

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Diplomatic Failure

Slidell's inability to secure official recognition by the Mexican government, leading to his departure.

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Military Revolution

A violent overthrow of the government by the military force, not the people.

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US Envoy

Official representative of the U.S., sent to Mexico to negotiate.

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Plighted Faith

A solemn promise or commitment, especially one broken.

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Texas annexation

Texas's desire to join the United States.

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Mexican threat

Mexico's possible invasion of Texas.

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US military positioning

Deployment of US troops between the Nueces and Del Norte rivers.

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General Taylor

US Army leader positioned at Del Norte.

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Mexican demands

Mexico's orders for the US army to retreat.

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April 24th

Date of the initial hostilities between US and Mexico.

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Nueces River

River marking previous Texas border.

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Del Norte River

River marking border of the US position.

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Matamoros

Mexican town on the Del Norte River.

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Aggressive Acts

Actions that might lead to conflict.

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Arista's Declaration

General Arista, the Mexican commander, declared that hostilities had begun and would continue.

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Initial Skirmish

American dragoons clashed with Mexican troops near the Rio Grande, resulting in American casualties and surrender.

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Mexican Wrongdoing

Mexico had repeatedly disregarded treaties and failed to compensate U.S citizens for their losses, leading to strained relations.

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Commerce Disrupted

Trade between the US and Mexico was severely hindered due to Mexican actions, creating economic hardship.

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US Forbearance

The US had been patient despite Mexican aggression, trying to maintain peace but ultimately failing to halt the conflict.

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Efforts for Reconciliation

The US attempted to resolve the conflict with Mexico through peaceful means before resorting to war.

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Cup of Forbearance

The U.S. had exhausted its patience with Mexico due to repeated aggression and broken promises.

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Crossing the Border

Mexican troops crossed the US border into Texas and attacked U.S. soldiers, triggering a full-fledged war.

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War Declaration

The official announcement by a nation that it is engaged in a conflict with another country.

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President Polk's Response

President Polk's message to Congress, outlining the reason for war with Mexico, calling for a volunteer army, increased military funding, and diplomacy.

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Volunteer Military Force

A group of citizens who willingly enlist in the army for a specific period of time.

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Prompt and Energetic Measures

President Polk's belief in taking swift and decisive action to end the conflict with Mexico.

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Negotiation Readiness

President Polk's stated willingness to discuss a peaceful resolution with Mexico when they were prepared.

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Correspondence and Information

The letters exchanged between U.S. diplomats and officials, including the content of communications between the U.S. envoy to Mexico and the Secretary of State.

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Study Notes

Polk's Message to Congress Regarding the Mexican-American War

  • Polk addressed Congress regarding the escalating conflict with Mexico.
  • The existing diplomatic issues between the US and Mexico were detailed in the message.
  • Prior grievances and injustices committed against US citizens by the Mexican government (dated to 1845) are highlighted.
  • The US desired peace and was open to fair negotiations regarding the border and other disputes with Mexico.
  • The US envoy to Mexico, Mr. Slidell, was initially welcomed, but the Mexican government later refused to accept him, citing internal struggles and revolutionary party interference in treaty negotiations.
  • Mexico rejected the US envoy.
  • The Mexican government refused to receive Mr. Slidell, a US envoy, despite prior agreements to do so.
  • This led to the US army moving to the area around the Rio Grande and the conflict escalating.
  • Mexico's refusal to receive the envoy led directly to the deterioration of relations, ultimately resulting in the initiation of hostilities.
  • The US considered Mexico's actions an invasion and stated their duty to protect American citizens and territory.
  • The US sought to resolve differences with Mexico through peaceful negotiations and amicable adjustment.
  • The US was ready to renew negotiations when Mexico was prepared.

Additional Notes

  • A military conflict on the US-Mexico border had begun.
  • The US army moved from Corpus Christi in March and arrived near the Rio Grande.
  • The Mexican army encountered the US force.
  • Hostilities started on April 24th.
  • The message included detailed correspondence between the US envoy, Mexican authorities, and the US secretary of state.

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Related Documents

Primary Source - Polk's War Message to Congress 1840s - PDF

Description

This quiz covers President Polk's message to Congress regarding the tensions leading to the Mexican-American War. It discusses diplomatic failures, grievances, and the rejection of US envoy Mr. Slidell by Mexico, which escalated the conflict. Test your knowledge on this pivotal moment in U.S. history.

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