The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was the agreement signed on February 2, 1848, by the United States of America and Mexico. This surrendered the Mexican claim to Texas and they came to terms that their territory ended in the Rio Grande which would act as their border. The Mexican Government also stated in the agreement that they would let go of New Mexico for a sum of 15 million dollars. This decision had an impact on that country by reducing the total size of Mexico to almost half its initial size.
History of Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
During the Mexican–American War, the United States and Mexico were at loggerheads over the land which Texas covers. This was after Mexico and the U.S. both wanted to annex the Texan state. In 1845, Mexico had claimed that Texas ended at the Nueces River, while the United States claimed the Rio Grande, which was the root of the dispute. Fighting continued for the next two years as General Taylor led his troops to Monterrey, and General Stephen Kearny and his men went to New Mexico, Chihuahua, and California. General Winfield Scott and his army delivered the decisive blow as they captured Mexico City in August 1847.
Mexican officials and Nicholas Trist, the U.S. representative, began discussions for a peace treaty in August 1847. On February 2, 1848, the Treaty was signed in Guadalupe Hidalgo, to which the Mexican leaders had fled ahead of the American troops.
With the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, America emerged victorious, gaining 525,000 square miles of Mexican territory from the Rio Grande to the Pacific Ocean. The southern American boundaries: Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, California, Utah, and Wyoming are the present-day names of the land acquired as a result of the Treaty. With the land also came the Mexican people who lived there, who could choose to become American citizens within a year — of which 90% did.
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo timeline
The United States of America Congress votes to support President Polk's request for war against Mexico over the dispute of Texas.
The United States of America army wins the war and the fall of Mexico City follows.
This day marks the official end to the war between these two countries.
Although President Polk wins the war, he loses the support of his people because of the two years of bloodshed.
The war reignites the debate about the slave trade and eventually leads to a civil war.
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo FAQs
What is the full name of the Treaty of Hidalgo Guadalupe?
It is the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Limits, and Settlement between the United States of America and the Mexican Republic of Hidalgo Guadalupe.
When did Texas become a part of Mexico?
Texas was originally settled by indigenous tribes. It was claimed by France for a short while during the 17th century and then by the Spanish. When Mexico fought and won its independence in 1821, the region of Texas became part of Mexico.
What treaty gave Texas its independence from Mexico?
In 1835, Texas battled and gained independence from Mexico; Texas was sovereign — the Lone Star Republic.
How to Observe Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
Join the Mexicans’ Segundo de Febrero
The Mexican people mark the date as special. They say it's a part of their heritage because it was the birth of a significant political movement called 'Chicano'. Join in and celebrate with them.
Research the treaty
It's good to always know more about history. This treaty affected Americans, Mexicans, and slaves, so it is good to see the effect it had and learn from it.
Make it a day of fusion
Since there are decidedly delicious Mexican and American dishes, make this a fusion day. Go big — add a sombrero and a cowboy hat to the party and eat a blend of the best of each culture. If you are adventurous, make it a Tex-Mex street or a block party.
5 Unknown Facts About Texas
Many flags fly over it
Texas is the only state where you would find six different flags flying: the United States, Spain, Confederate States, France, the Republic of Texas, and Mexico.
Rather leave the dust alone
It's illegal to dust a public building with a feather duster in Texas.
You may kill Bigfoot
It's legal for you to shoot Bigfoot if you happen to see him in Texas.
Texans speak German
There is a German dialect that is only spoken in regions of Texas.
Popular soft drink hails from Texas
Dr. Pepper was invented in Texas in 1885.
Why We Love The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
Opportunities were given
Many people had the opportunity to start their lives again. They had the chance to be relocated and the majority of them were given property.
Indian raids cooperation forged
The United States of America agreed to join forces with the Mexican government to stop the Indian raids. They also prosecuted any citizen that was caught purchasing any illegally purchased item.
The annual celebration is lovely
Every year, the Mexicans celebrate the treaty with beautiful events as they've done in years past. It is a widely celebrated event in many places amongst which New Mexico and Texas stand out in the glamorous celebration.
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | February 2 | Sunday |
2026 | February 2 | Monday |
2027 | February 2 | Tuesday |
2028 | February 2 | Wednesday |
2029 | February 2 | Friday |