How Texas Became a State
by Ari Staggs
Fight for freedom
Border Skirmishes
This is war!
General Taylor's militia fought the first battle at Palo Alto, and Mexico retreated. They advanced into Mexican territory, and fought battles at Monterrey, and a mountain trail called Buena Vista. During the Battle of Buena Vista, Taylor and his army of 4,000 were ambushed by about 14,000 Mexican soldiers. Despite being greatly outnumbered, they managed to defend theirselves, and won the battle.
James K. Polk, the president, did not find Zachary Taylor trustworthy, and actually thought of him as a rival. Rather than reinforcing his troops, who were attacking Mexico City, he sent another army commanded by General Winfield Scott. His troops rushed into Mexico City, and took it in August of 1847.
Peace Treaty
In conclusion, the Mexican-American war was very important in forming a lot of the states of our country, and was a crucial part of westward expansion. There were many battles, but in the end, the USA was victorious.