Reference Entry
WAR DECLARED ON MEXICO
On May 13th, 1846, Congress responds to President James K. Polk’s war message and formally declares that a state of war exists with Mexico. Skirmishes along the Rio Grande have already led to American and Mexican casualties, and the vote unlocks the use of the regular Army and newly raised volunteers on multiple fronts. Over the next two years, United States forces will fight along the border, across northern Mexico, and in a bold amphibious landing and march on Mexico City.
Dated Historical Context
A RECORDED MOMENT IN HISTORY
War declared on Mexico
On May 13th, 1846, Congress responds to President James K. Polk’s war message and formally declares that a state of war exists with Mexico. Skirmishes along the Rio Grande have already led to American and Mexican casualties, and the vote unlocks the use of the regular Army and newly raised volunteers on multiple fronts. Over the next two years, United States forces will fight along the border, across northern Mexico, and in a bold amphibious landing and march on Mexico City. For the Army, the conflict becomes a proving ground in logistics, amphibious operations, and large-scale campaigning far from home. Many officers who cut their teeth in Mexico, from Ulysses S. Grant to Robert E. Lee, will later command on opposite sides in the Civil War. The May 13th declaration thus marks not only the start of a controversial war, but a turning point in the continental and military expansion of the United States.
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