The Mexican-American War

With the occupation of Mexico City by American forces, both sides were ready to talk peace.

It took a few months, but the details were ironed out and on February 2, 1848, both sides signed the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, ending the war. Mexico agreed to give up about 55 percent of its territory and got $15 million in return.

This territory was called the Mexican Cession. This territory included all of the present-day states of California, Nevada, and Utah and also parts of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.

The two countries weren't exactly on friendly terms after that, but war did not resume. American explorers and settlers flocked to the new territories, and the Westward Movement was on.

First page > Part 1: How It All Started > Page 1, 2, 3, 4   

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Social Studies for Kids
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David White