Manifest destiny 3

What are the different viewpoints on the cause of the Mexican-American War?

Traditional American View: Mexico started the war by attacking American troops and acted in bad faith during negotiations. Mexico had stated that annexing Texas would be an act of war.
Traditional Mexican View: The U.S. plotted the war to acquire California through capitalist expansion and an immoral land grab.
Recent Mexican View: National preservation forced Mexico to fight, and leaders were more concerned with holding onto their own power.
Recent American View: Polk tried to bluff Mexico into selling California and attempted to bribe and bully them, but Mexico called their bluff.

What promises did President Polk make and fulfill?

James K. Polk promised to acquire California, Oregon, and settle the Texas dispute. He also promised to serve only one term, fulfilling all his campaign promises.

What was John Slidell's mission in Mexico?

Polk sent John Slidell to Mexico City to negotiate the purchase of California and New Mexico for $25 million$, cede disputed parts of Texas, and have the U.S. assume American held debts against Mexico. However, the Mexican president refused to meet with Slidell.

What actions did Polk take to provoke Mexico, and what was the result?

Polk ordered General Taylor to move troops to the Rio Grande in the disputed territory, attempting to provoke an attack from Mexico. US Congress declared war on Mexico, because they claimed American blood had been spilled on American soil.