LAD #12: Polk's War Message

There was increasing tension over harsh treatment of citezens between the United States and Mexico, and Polk wrote a letter to congress dressing the issue. Polk states John Siddle was sent to Mexico for the purpose of obtaining territory in New Mexico and California, but the Mexican government refused to speak with him. Polk also stated that he ordered some troops to occupy the border in case there was another Mexican attack. Mexican soldiers attacked American soldiers between the Nuces and Del Norte area, and 16 troops were killed. Furthermore, Polk concluded by addressing the fact that Mexico has taken hostile measures, and this gives the United States a reason to go to war.