2. Causes of the War During the 1820s, the Mexican government sold many land grants for Americans to settle in the under populated area of present day Texas, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Arizona. The droves of settlers easily outnumbered the Mexicans there, which alarmed Mexican authorities.
6. Battle of Buena Vista In 1847, President Polk ordered General Zachary Taylor to transfer his main force to General Scott to march on Mexico City. Taylor was left to defend his position with 5,000 inexperienced troops. General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna saw the opportunity and raced north with 20,000 Mexican soldiers. While Taylor secured his defense in a mountain pass Santa Anna called for his surrender. After several skirmishes, Santa Anna ordered a full assault on the US forces. After being beaten back, Santa Anna’s planned final blow was halted. He declared it a victory and retreated quickly. Mexican forces lost 3,400 men while the Americans lost only 650. Outcome- US Victory.
7. Battle of Cerro Gordo US General Winfield Scott lead an army of 10,000 men inland from Vera Cruz. Mexico’s military dictator, General Santa Anna moved his 12,000 man army to defend the mountain pass of Cerro Gordo. US Forces found the Mexican left side undefended, but Santa Anna was warned of the plan by a deserter. Even through this the US Army cut off Santa Anna’s supply line and he fled. Outcome- US Victory.
