The treaty that concluded the Mexican-American War, ceding vast territories to the United States and reshaping North America.
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848, marked the end of the Mexican-American War, a conflict that had erupted over territorial disputes and the expansionist ambitions of the United States. The treaty resulted in Mexico ceding approximately 55% of its pre-war territory, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Texas, to the United States. This massive territorial acquisition, known as the Mexican Cession, significantly expanded the United States and was a pivotal moment in its westward expansion. The treaty also established the Rio Grande as the border between Texas and Mexico, a crucial point of contention that had partly led to the war. While the treaty brought an end to hostilities, it left a legacy of tension and resentment in Mexico and set the stage for future conflicts over issues such as slavery and statehood in the newly acquired territories. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo remains a significant document in the history of both nations, symbolizing a turning point in North American geopolitics.
Chapters
Timeline
1846-05-13
United States Declares War on Mexico
Following a skirmish between Mexican and American troops in disputed territory, the United States Congress declared war on Mexico, marking the official start of the Mexican-American War.
1847-09-14
Capture of Mexico City
American forces captured Mexico City, a decisive victory that effectively ended major military operations in the Mexican-American War.
1847-11-10
Negotiations Begin
Negotiations for peace began in earnest in Guadalupe Hidalgo, with both the United States and Mexico eager to end the conflict.
1848-02-02
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Signed
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed, officially ending the Mexican-American War and ceding vast territories to the United States.
1848-05-30
Treaty Ratified by U.S. Senate
The United States Senate ratified the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, solidifying the terms of peace and territorial acquisition.
1848-07-04
Treaty Ratified by Mexican Government
The Mexican government ratified the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, officially accepting the terms and ending the war.
1848-08-01
Mexican Cession
The United States took formal possession of the territories ceded by Mexico, marking a significant expansion of U.S. territory.
1849-01-24
California Gold Rush Begins
The discovery of gold in California spurred a massive influx of settlers, accelerating the region's push for statehood.
1850-09-09
California Admitted as a State
California was admitted to the Union as a free state, a significant development in the debate over slavery in the new territories.
1853-12-30
Gadsden Purchase
The United States purchased additional land from Mexico, further defining the southern border and facilitating railroad construction.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and companies that share history with this treaty.
Civilization Archive
(3)Apache Civilization
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo redefined Apache territory, undermining their sovereignty and exacerbating conflicts with American settlers.
Aztec Civilization
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, ending the Mexican-American War, echoed the Spanish conquest's legacy by reshaping territories once under Aztec influence.
Iroquois Confederacy
As the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo redrew U.S.-Mexico borders, the Iroquois Confederacy faced similar expansionist pressures, highlighting indigenous struggles.
