Mexican American War

The areas that we think of as Mexico, Texas, and New Mexico were all originally part of one huge 2000 mile long colony that the Spanish had taken from the Aztecs.  In 1810 northern Spanish colonists took advantage of the turmoil caused by Napoleon in Europe to rebel.  They failed at first, but in 1821 an Independent Mexican Empire was established.  They requested admission to the US in 1836 but were rejected. 

In 1845 Congress passed a resolution calling for the admission of Texas to the Union. President Polk ordered troops into disputed lands.  When the first casualties fell, he announced “We have tried every effort at reconciliation … but now, after reiterated menaces Mexico has passed the boundary of the United States, has invaded our territory, and shed American blood on American soil.” 

In class activities:

• Learned about the differences between eastern English settlements and Spanish colonies in the midwest
• Discussed whether annexation was legal or not
• Looked at the war from Mexico's perspective
• Learned about Davy Crocket
• Built our own giant paper Alamo
• Made our own Republic of Texas flags

Optional lesson extension activities:

• Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own metal Alamo
• Read the true story of Susanna of the Alamo
• Watch to learn more about the Mexican American War

Assignment:

• Read history cards #10 & 11
• Practice your timeline