Mexican American War

Visit the website below and complete the following tasks:
Link 1

A. Read the section titles Prelude to War and develop a thesis on the cause of the war (Manifest Destiny? Political posturing? Imperialism?) Cite specific information from your notes and the website.

B. View the interactive timeline and browse this section.
1. What were the Mexican perceptions of the war?
2. What role did the U.S. play in reporting the war?
3. What were the stipulations of the Treaty of Guadelupe Hidalgo? Was it a
realization of pre-war American goals? Manifest Destiny?

C. Browse this section and
1. Take notes on the various viewpoints about the war (just or unjust? etc...)
2. Explain which thesis you agree with most and why.

D. Watch the video below. It is embedded in the site. If you can not see it, click on 'Link 2'. Which argument do you agree with most and why?

Link 2


E. Be prepared to debate the various issues regarding the Mexican-American War on Monday. Create note cards for each aspect of the debate. Each card should defend one of the following statements:


1. The Mexican American War was a result of Manifest Destiny
2. Manifest Destiny was a justification for political expansionism on the part
of America from the period 1821-1848

I will pick students at random to debate each side. This debate will be graded. Appraoch the debate as if it is an essay. You must have a thesis to go by for either side and then evidence to support your thesis. Ask questions here.