Why was the Mexican-American War knows as "Mr. Polk's War"?

Question

Peyton Anderson · Accepted Answer

Because he provoked it

There was territory in dispute between the U.S., and Mexico, preceding the war, there were attempts by the U.S. to buy the territory, but were unable to, due to Mexican pride and internal instability following their independence.

Basically, Polk sent Zachary Taylor (a general), with a detachment of troops, into the claimed territory, which, naturally, angered the Mexicans.

The Mexican general Santa Anna (with 2,000 soldiers) attacked a 70 men U.S. patrol, in what was known as the "Thornton Affair", which killed 11 Americans, and gave Polk a casus belli* (cause for war), and then war was declared on May 13, 1846.

*The captain of that 70 men patrol was named Seth Thornton, thus the name.

Landon Alexander · Answer

undefined The Mexican-American War was often referred to as "Mr. Polk's War" because President James K. Polk played a significant role in instigating the conflict. Polk was a strong advocate for westward expansion and the annexation of Texas, which was a contentious issue between Mexico and the United States. His policies and actions, such as sending troops to disputed territories and his aggressive stance towards Mexico, were instrumental in escalating tensions and ultimately leading to war. Therefore, the war became closely associated with President Polk, earning it the nickname "Mr. Polk's War."