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Mexican Cession (1848)

Lesson Plan

The Mexican-American War ended with Mexico giving up a million acres of land to the United States. In this lesson, students learn about Americans’ drive to expand west, tensions between the U.S. and Mexico, and President James Polk’s actions that started a war between the two countries. This lesson also includes the Gadsen Purchase of 1853. 

 

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Teacher Resources

Get access to lesson plans, teacher guides, student handouts, and other teaching materials.

Mexican Cession - Mexican-American War Lesson Plan 01 - Reading James Polk expansion of the U.S.
Mexican Cession - Mexican-American War Lesson Plan 02 - Student Activity
Mexican Cession - Mexican-American War Lesson Plan 03 - Map

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