LAD/Blog #12: Polk's War Message

 [ President Polk ] 

Polk's War Message, issued on May 11, 1846, was against Mexico, stating that Mexico and its government had wronged and injured the American people and their property. Though Polk did not want to become aggressive toward Mexico, he felt as though Mexican hostilities had gone unaddressed for far too long and that war was inevitable. Examples of this hostile treatment include the harsh treatment of an American envoy to Mexico, Mexican invasion of American territory, and the shedding of American blood, for which Mexico was responsible. Though the United States still tried to maintain positive relations with Mexico, trade had dwindled and hostilities had commenced, and although both the United States and Mexico sought fair and diplomatic relations, the United States had to prepare itself for war. Polk hoped that the disputes with Mexico would be settled quickly and cleanly, but war was looming and could not be ignored.