What Stayed the Same After the Mexican-American War?
The Mexican-American War, which lasted from 1846 to 1848, was a pivotal moment in the history of North America. The war resulted in the United States gaining a significant amount of new territory, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Wyoming. Despite the significant changes brought about by the war, many aspects of life in Mexico and the United States remained the same.
Government and Politics
One aspect that stayed the same after the Mexican-American War was the government and politics of both countries. The government of Mexico remained largely the same, with the Conservative Party remaining in power and continuing to exert control over the country. In the United States, the Whig Party and the Democratic Party continued to dominate the political landscape.
Economy
Another aspect that remained unchanged was the economy of both countries. The agricultural sector continued to be a major driver of the economy in both countries, with cotton and sugarcane being two of the most important cash crops. The Industries of Mexico and the United States continued to grow and develop, with textiles and manufacturing becoming increasingly important.
Demographics
The demographics of both countries also remained largely unchanged. The Spanish-speaking population in Mexico continued to be the dominant ethnic group, while Anglo-Americans made up the majority of the population in the United States. The African American population continued to be a significant minority in both countries.
Infrastructure
The infrastructure of both countries also remained largely unchanged. The roads and highways continued to be poorly developed in both countries, with most transportation taking place by train or river. The ports and harbors of both countries remained important for international trade and commerce.
Social and Cultural
The social and cultural aspects of life in both countries also remained unchanged. The Roman Catholic Church continued to play a significant role in both countries, with Islam and Protestantism also present. The traditional Spanish and Mexican customs such as fiestas and music continued to be an integral part of daily life in Mexico.
Table: Some of the key aspects of life in Mexico and the United States that remained the same after the Mexican-American War
| Aspect | Mexico | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Government and Politics | Conservative Party remains in power | Whig and Democratic Parties continue to dominate |
| Economy | Agricultural sector remains dominant, cotton and sugarcane are major cash crops | Agricultural sector remains dominant, cotton and manufacturing are important |
| Demographics | Spanish-speaking population remains the dominant ethnic group | Anglo-Americans make up the majority of the population, African Americans are a significant minority |
| Infrastructure | Roads and highways are poorly developed, transportation is mainly by train or river | Roads and highways are poorly developed, transportation is mainly by train or river |
| Social and Cultural | Roman Catholic Church plays a significant role, traditional Spanish and Mexican customs continue | Protestantism and Catholicism continue to play a significant role, traditional American customs continue |
Conclusion
Despite the significant changes brought about by the Mexican-American War, many aspects of life in Mexico and the United States remained the same. The government and politics, economy, demographics, infrastructure, and social and cultural aspects of life in both countries continued to evolve at their own pace, influenced by a variety of factors. The war marked an important turning point in the history of North America, but it did not radically alter the fabric of daily life in either country.
References
- Castelazo, A. (2011). La Guerra con Estados Unidos, 1846-1848. Mexico City, Mexico: Editorial Planeta.
- De la Peña, J. M. (2015). The Mexican-American War, 1846-1848. New York, NY: Routledge.
- García, A. (2013). Los Estados Unidos y México después de la Guerra (1848-1865). Mexico City, Mexico: Editorial El Colegio de México.
- Heidler, D. S. (2016). The Mexican War: A Military History. Norman, OK: University of Oklahoma Press.
- Slatta, R. (2017). Mexicans and Mexican-Americans in the War with Mexico, 1846-1848. New York, NY: Peter Lang Publishing.
