Texas Annexation
The Texas Annexation was a pivotal event in the history of the United States and Texas, culminating in Texas becoming the 28th state of the Union in 1845. Here are key details regarding this historical process:
Background:
- After gaining independence from Mexico in 1836 following the Texas Revolution, Texas sought annexation by the United States to gain economic stability and protection against potential Mexican reclamation efforts.
- The annexation was initially controversial due to several factors:
- Concerns over the expansion of slavery, as Texas was a slave state.
- Fear of war with Mexico, which had not recognized Texas's independence.
- Balance of power in the U.S. Senate, where adding a new state could disrupt the sectional balance between free and slave states.
The Process:
- 1836-1843: Initial annexation proposals were rejected by the U.S. Congress due to anti-slavery sentiments and the fear of war with Mexico.
- 1844: The annexation became a central issue in the U.S. presidential election. James K. Polk, a proponent of Manifest Destiny, won the election with the promise of expansion.
- 1845:
- On February 28, 1845, the U.S. Congress passed a joint resolution offering annexation to Texas.
- On July 4, 1845, Texas accepted the offer, and on December 29, 1845, President James K. Polk signed the bill making Texas a state.
Consequences:
Legal and Political Considerations:
- The annexation was facilitated through a joint resolution of Congress rather than a treaty, which required only a simple majority in both houses rather than a two-thirds Senate approval.
- Texas was admitted with the provision that it could divide into as many as five states, although this never occurred.
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