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1818 Treaty
Great Britain and the United States agree to jointly occupy the Oregon Territory. -
Stephen F. Austin arrives in Texas
Stephen F. Austin started the first colony of Americans in the new Texas territory. -
Mexican Colonization Law
In order to increase American immigration into Mexican territory of Texas, Mexico passes the Colonization Law in 1824 allowing for cheap land and a 4 year tax break. -
Battle of Goliad
This battle was also a defeat for Americans in the Mexican-American war. The war looked to be a decisive Mexican victory after the many American losses. -
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Battle of the Alamo
This bloody battle marked a defeat for Americans in the Mexican-American war. -
Battle of San Jacinto
This was the final battle in the Mexican-American War. This secured America a decisive victory against the Mexicans and paved the way for Texas to become an independent territory. -
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Proposition to annex Texas is rejected by congress
After proposing to annex Texas in 1844, it is rejected because it was presented by John C, Calhoun as an excuse to extend slavery. -
First telegraph message is sent
Samuel F.B. Morse Sent the First Telegraphic Message. This makes communication the easiest it's ever been in history. -
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John L. O'Sulivan first uses the term "Manifest Destiny"
In the July-August issue of Democratic Review, author John L O'Sullivan coins the term "manifest destiny" to describe America's duty by God to expand westward. -
Slidell Mission
President Polk sends Slidell on a mission to bribe the Mexican government. If Mexico will accept money for the purchase of NM, CA, and TX, then they can avoid going to war. -
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Kearney and Fremont take New Mexico and California
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Tyer annexes Texas
In his last moments in office, President John Tyler decides to annex Texas, a point that Polk used to win the election. -
The United States Declares War on Mexico
After rebellions in Texas, border attacks, and Mexico's refusal to allow the US to purchase territory, the United States finally declares war on Mexico. -
54-40 or Fight!
President Polk creates excitement among the country as they campagin to firmly establish the border between the United States and Canada after the dissolution of the 1818 Treaty. -
Wimot Proviso
This is a proposal to outlaw slavery in the territory newly acquired from the Mexican-American War. -
Mechanical reaper in Colorado
The use of the mechanical reaper allows farmers to grow crops in the tough plain's soil. -
James Marshall finds gold in the Sierra Nevada
Th discovery of gold in the Sierra Nevada range in California caused a great migration West as men tried to make their fortunes. -
Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo
This treaty ends the Mexican-American War. Mexico cedes Texas, New Mexico, and California to the United States and establishes the Rio Grande as the border between the two countries. -
Proposition to annex California rejected
The proposal to annex California is rejected for fear of upsetting the balance between free and slave states. -
Brooks-Sumner Incident
Massachusetts Senator Charles Sumner delivered a speech attacking slavery supporters in the Senate, singling out Senator Andrew Butler of South Carolina. South Carolina Representative Preston Brooks, Butler's nephew, attacked Sumner on the Senate floor, beating him with a cane. This incident represents growing tension and violence nationwide