- Desire for Expansion: The United States desired to expand its territory and saw Texas as a way to gain more land.
- Texan Independence: Mexico considered Texas a breakaway province and viewed the US annexation as an illegal act.
2. Slavery issue:
- Different Views: The US allowed slavery, while Mexico had abolished slavery in the 1820s. The potential extension of slavery into Texas angered Mexico.
3. Border Disputes:
- Unclear Boundaries: There was disagreement between the US and Mexico over the exact location of the border between Texas and Mexico.
4. US Troops in Texas:
- Provocation: Mexico saw the presence of US troops along the Rio Grande as provocative and a violation of Mexican territory.
5. Diplomatic Efforts:
- Failed Negotiations: Attempts at diplomatic negotiations between the US and Mexico to resolve the issues were unsuccessful.
6. Escalating Tensions:
- Border Clashes: Small military clashes occurred between the US and Mexican forces along the border.
7. James K. Polk's Presidency:
- Expansionist Stance: President James K. Polk favored expansionist policies and saw Texas as a way to achieve his goals.
8. Diplomatic Recognition:
- Recognition of Texas by the US: The United States recognized Texas as an independent republic, which further angered Mexico.
9. Border Conflict:
- Dispute at Nueces River: US forces claimed Texan territory south to the Rio Grande, while Mexican forces were stationed at the Nueces River.
10. Declaration of War:
- US Congressional Action: The US Congress declared war on Mexico in May 1846, initiating the Mexican-American War.
These factors combined to lead from diplomatic tensions and border conflicts until ultimately war broke out between the US and Mexico in 1846.