The Mexican-American War Comes to California — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

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

About This Reader

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.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Bear Flag monument, Sonoma, Calif.
Source: Library of Congress

The Mexican-American War began in 1846 between the United States and Mexico. The United States wanted to add new lands in the west. California was one of these lands. At the time, California belonged to Mexico.

Soon after the war started, American settlers in California had their own plans. In June 1846, a group of settlers started the Bear Flag Revolt. They raised a flag with a bear on it and said California was free from Mexico. They called it the California Republic.

At the same time, U.S. Army troops led by Captain John C. Frémont entered California. Frémont was a brave leader. He joined the settlers and helped them take control of towns. The Mexican army was weak in California. By July 1846, the U.S. Navy had sailed to Monterey and raised the American flag. California was now under control of the United States.

The war was not over yet. Some Californios, the Spanish-speaking people living in California, wanted to keep their land. There were small battles. In one famous event, a Californio leader named Andrés Pico signed a surrender at Cahuenga in January 1847. He said, "Peace is better than war." This ended fighting in California.

After the war ended in 1848, Mexico gave California to the United States through a treaty. Soon, people from all over the world came to California for gold. In 1850, California became a state in the United States. The people had worked hard and showed unity and bravery during these changes.

The Mexican-American War changed the map of North America. California’s story is one of many during westward expansion. The people who lived through it faced many challenges. They helped shape the future of the United States.

Interesting Fact: The Bear Flag that was raised in 1846 inspired California’s modern state flag.

When did the Bear Flag Revolt begin?

June 1846January 1847July 18461850

Who led U.S. troops into California?

John C. FrémontAndrés PicoJames PolkWilliam Todd

What happened to California in 1850?

It became a stateIt joined MexicoIt was abandonedIt became a country

Why did settlers start the Bear Flag Revolt?

To free California from MexicoTo find goldTo build citiesTo start a war

How did California come under U.S. control?

By treaty after the warBy buying itThrough a voteBy peaceful agreement

What did Andrés Pico do in January 1847?