Stories

Lithograph depicting the landing of U.S. troops at Veracruz
Landing of the American forces under Genl. Scott, at Vera Cruz, March 9th, 1847

Library of Congress (no known restrictions)

Setting the Stage

"The jurisdiction of the United States…has passed the capes of Florida and been peacefully extended to the Del Norte."

That is how President James K. Polk characterized the recent annexation of Texas by the United States in his December 1845 message to Congress. With that statement, Polk declared the boundary between Texas and Mexico was the Rio Del Norte or Rio Grande.

Sea to Shining Sea

Polk campaigned for the Presidency with a pledge to extend the United States to the Pacific Ocean. The addition of the Republic of Texas as the 28th state represented a major step toward that goal.

 

Mexican War Overview

 
Loading results...

    Last updated: June 21, 2023

    Park footer

    Contact Info

    Mailing Address:

    600 E. Harrison Street
    Room 1006

    Brownsville, TX 78520

    Phone:

    956 541-2785 x333

    Contact Us