History and Controversies: Should the US Give Texas Back to Mexico?
Recently, a controversial question has emerged regarding the historical and political status of Texas: Should the United States give Texas back to Mexico?
The question itself seems absurd when one considers the comprehensive history of the region. The United States did not take Texas through conquest but through mutual agreement and an act of independence. On April 21, 1836, the Battle of San Jacinto led to Texas gaining its independence from Mexico, led by General Sam Houston, who later became President of the Republic of Texas.
The independent Republic of Texas then voted to join the Union in 1845, with 94.5% of citizens in favor. This act of annexation was negotiated between the Republic of Texas and the United States, effectively becoming a shared vision rather than a unilateral action. The historical records are thus clear, emphasizing the mutual agreement rather than any form of conquest or takeover.
Land and Treaty Agreements
The acquisition of Texas by the United States was further formalized in various treaties. In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo saw the United States purchasing California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, parts of New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Wyoming in exchange for $15M. Additionally, in 1850, Texas received $10M in exchange for the eastern half of New Mexico and parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, Colorado, and Wyoming, as mentioned in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
Additional Territory and Modern Relevance
In 1854, the Gadsden Purchase added 29,640 square miles of southern New Mexico and Arizona to the United States, valued at $10M. These territorial movements were not unilateral actions by the United States but were approved through treaties and agreements that several nations were part of. The citizens of Texas clearly stood with their decision to join the Union, and their sentiments are strong and unequivocal.
Today, the sentiment among the populace of Texas remains consistent with its historical stance. More than 93 million Americans would not voluntarily give their state back to Mexico. This historical resilience is rooted in the collective memory and shared identity of the American people.
Conclusion
To conclude, the United States did not take Texas from Mexico but joined with it through a mutual agreement and recognition of independence. The question of giving Texas back to Mexico is therefore historically and politically illogical. The annexation was followed by formal treaties and agreements, and the populace of Texas supports its current national status, identifying with the United States.
Historically, it is equally important to note that the United States has no claims to any of the territories that Mexico once held but later ceded through such treaties. The stance on territorial disputes should be guided by sound historical analysis rather than emotional or speculative arguments. Whether considering the issue with Texas or any other historical contentious territories, it is essential to adhere to the principles of historical integrity and mutual agreements.