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The Mexican-American War Comes to California — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.6.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
W.4.2

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This passage explores the key events of the Mexican-American War as it reached California, focusing on the period leading up to California’s statehood in 1850. Students will learn about the causes and effects of the war, the people involved, and how California became part of the United States. The passage uses accessible language and a clear sequence of events to support foundational literacy and historical thinking. It also features a glossary of important terms, a Spanish translation, a timeline, and related activities including a quiz, writing prompts, and a graphic organizer. Teachers and students benefit from integrated literacy and history standards, with alignment to D2.His.2.3-5, D2.His.6.3-5, RI.4.3, RI.4.4, W.4.2. This passage includes a read aloud audio option and activities designed to deepen understanding of westward expansion and California’s journey to statehood.

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"Raising of the Bear Flag over Sonoma, June 14, 1846" by Charlies Pierce / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

The Mexican-American War was a conflict between Mexico and the United States from 1846 to 1848. During this war, California was under Mexican rule. The United States wanted to expand its land all the way to the Pacific Ocean. This goal was called westward expansion.

In 1846, American settlers in California started an uprising known as the Bear Flag Revolt. They wanted California to become part of the United States, not Mexico. At the same time, U.S. troops entered California. They fought battles against Mexican soldiers in several towns, including Los Angeles and San Diego.

By 1847, most of California was controlled by the United States military. The war was difficult for both sides. Some Californios, who were people living in California under Mexican rule, tried to fight back. However, they were outnumbered by the U.S. army.

In 1848, the war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. This treaty was a formal agreement between Mexico and the United States. The treaty gave California and other lands to the United States. In return, the United States paid Mexico $15 million and promised to protect the rights of people living in these new territories.

The change from Mexican to American rule was a big territorial change. It changed the government, laws, and culture in California. American settlers began to arrive in large numbers. Many people came looking for gold after the Gold Rush began in 1848. This caused towns to grow quickly and brought many new cultures together.

The Mexican-American War and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo transformed California. It became a part of the United States and started a new chapter in its history. The war showed the bravery of people on both sides and the importance of working for peace.

Interesting Fact: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo added more than 500,000 square miles of land to the United States, including California, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Wyoming.

When did the Mexican-American War begin?

1846185017761865

What was the Bear Flag Revolt?

A gold discoveryA fight for U.S. controlA treaty signingA new law

What ended the Mexican-American War?

Gold RushBear Flag RevoltTreaty of Guadalupe HidalgoElection

Why did many people come to California after 1848?

For the Gold RushFor farmingFor tradeFor military jobs

What did the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo do?

Gave California to MexicoGave land to the U.S.Started a new warProtected only soldiers

How did the war change California?

Changed its laws and leadersMoved it eastMade it colderClosed its towns