LAD#12

Polk's War Message, 1846

Polk starts by explaining that the US greatly desires peace with Mexico and will take measures such as adjusting their border to establish good relations with Mexico.  The US has made attempts at compromise but the Mexican Government has refused these propositions and even invaded US soil.  He explains that it was agreed upon that a group of men from the US would travel to Mexico to discuss and resolve all problems in question by both the US and Mexican Government.  The Americans were treated with respect in Vera Cruz but soon were turned away due to the revolutionary sentiment in Texas.  Just five days after the Americans had turned back, General Herrera gave up the presidency then and a military leader took control.  Polk then tried again and told his men to present their credentials and ask to be received by General Paredes.  The Mexican government had been completely transformed since it had been an abnormal succession.  Because of these changes the American men could not do anything and returned home.  The Government of Mexico therefore, had violated trust and refused to negotiate with men who were extremely ready to do so.  Polk then explained his placement of sufficient military force to defend Texas from Mexican invasion, since she had decided to annex herself into the US.  In 1836 Texas officially became a part of the Union and had control over the land between the Nueces and the Rio del Norte.  The southwestern border of Texas seemed vulnerable to attack so the Government established military stations and forces to protect this area.  The troops in this area were under direct orders to refrain from any aggressive actions towards the Mexican nation.  In March, 1837 the troops moved from Corpus Christi to the left bank of the Del Norte.  The General of the Mexican forces ordered that these American troops break up camp and when they refused, the Mexican forces attacked and caused a short battle in which men were killed and wounded.  Therefore, the Mexican government is obviously unwilling to enforce rules established by treaties pledging faith.  Because of these actions US commerce with Mexico came to an abrupt halt hurting both countries.  The US supported the Texans in their actions because they recognized Texas as an independent nation.  Because of the Mexican hostilities, the two countries are now at war; A war caused by acts of Mexico.