The
Mexican-American War of the 1840s, precipitated by
border disputes and the U.S.
annexation of Texas, ended with the military occupation of Mexico City by General
Winfield Scott. In the subsequent treaty, the United States gained territory that would become California, Nevada, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and parts of Wyoming and Colorado. In this highly readable account, John S.D. Eisenhower provides a comprehensive survey of this frequently overlooked war.<
Background Information
The Mexican-American War was widely unpopular at home and gained vast new territories while leaving domestic issues like slavery unsettled. After Texas gained independence, its annexation to the United States created diplomatic problems with Mexico and internal controversy over slavery. Winfield Scott was an American general during the Mexican-American War and an unsuccessful Whig candidate for president in 1852.
