LAD#12: Polk's War Message (1846)

Summarize.
Polk first describes how the desire to establish peace and good relations with Mexico failed due to the unwillingness of the Mexican government. He asked the Mexican Government under General Herrera if they would receive an envoy; upon answering affirmatively, Polk sent John Slidell with full powers, including the power to discuss the adjustment of borders. However, soon after Slidell arrived, the government changed hands to General Parades. Polk directed Slidell to ask to be received by the new government, since it had changed so much it could not be justly assumed the previous reception was still in order, but Parades not only rejected Slidell but did so rudely, so he had no choice but to return to the United States without any resolution of the conflict.

Polk then goes on to defend sending troops into Texas, because Texas had wished to annex into the United States and Congress had agreed, and it was under the United States' duty to protect them when the Mexican government threatened an attack. The movement of troops was done under the orders of the general to abstain from all aggressive acts towards Mexico and it's citizens, and to respect them as if it were during peacetime unless Mexico should declare war or themselves attack.

The Mexican forces threatened that unless General Taylor should remove his troops from the area, the question would be decided through arms. However, no act of hostility was made until about two weeks later, when a group of Mexican troops meant to attack the American camp were intercepted by a scouting party, of which 16 were killed or wounded.

Polk continues to describe that Mexico has committed many other wrongs against United States citizens and has refused to honor old treaties. He also describes that commerce between the two nations, which was formerly beneficial to both, has now all but disappeared due to the Mexican authorities' treatment of American merchants. He justifies that as Texas was her own nation, it was her choice to annex into the United States and Mexico has refused to honor that.

Finally, Polk declares that Mexico has invaded American boundaries a step too far, has shed American blood on our own soil, and has declared war, despite the attempts of American government to avoid it. Thus it is the duty of the government to defend the United States.