Mexican-American War and Its Impacts

The video discusses the rapid westward expansion of the United States in the 1800s, leading to the acquisition of southwestern territories through the Mexican-American War. The war was fueled by the concept of Manifest Destiny and political disagreements. Key military campaigns and leadership changes are highlighted, including the roles of Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott. The war concluded with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which granted the U.S. significant land in exchange for monetary compensation. The Gadsden Purchase further expanded U.S. territory, blending American and Mexican cultures and altering bilateral relations.

What was the primary motivation behind the United States' westward expansion in the 1800s?

• To establish trade routes with Asia

• To escape European influence

• To spread democracy and expand territory

• To find new sources of gold

Which political party opposed the Mexican-American War, believing it was unnecessary?

• Whig Party

• Republican Party

• Democratic Party

• Federalist Party

What was a major concern of abolitionists regarding the Mexican-American War?

• The war would lead to economic instability

• The war would damage relations with Europe

• The war would spread slavery into new territories

• The war would lead to increased taxes

How many volunteers did the United States government initially request for the Mexican-American War?

• 10,000

• 100,000

• 25,000

• 50,000

Which general led the U.S. forces across the Rio Grande River?

• General Winfield Scott

• General John C. Fremont

• General Zachary Taylor

• General Stephen Kearney

What was the Bear Flag Rebellion?

• A movement to annex Texas

• A rebellion that established the California Republic

• A campaign to capture Mexico City

• A protest against the Mexican-American War

Which cities were captured by Kearney's army during the Bear Flag Rebellion?

• Santa Fe, Albuquerque, and Taos

• Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff

• San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco

• Houston, Dallas, and Austin

Why did President Polk replace General Taylor with General Scott?

• Taylor was losing battles

• Scott had more experience

• Scott was closer to the battlefield

• Polk feared Taylor's political popularity

What was the outcome of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

• The war continued for another year

• Mexico gained new territories

• The U.S. paid Mexico $15 million for land

• The U.S. returned all captured territories

What was the Gadsden Purchase?

• A military alliance with Mexico

• An agreement to share the Rio Grande River

• A purchase of land from Mexico for $10 million

• A treaty ending the Mexican-American War