* The United States gained access to the Pacific Ocean and control over important ports such as San Francisco and San Diego.
* The United States gained control of the vast resources of the Southwest, including gold, silver, timber, and agricultural land.
* The United States gained a more defensible border along the Rio Grande River, which helped to secure the country from potential foreign incursions.
* The United States gained a more diverse population, including large numbers of Hispanic and Native American citizens.