Manifest Destiny

                The Manifest Destiny was a time period in American history lasting from the years 1803 to 1853. However, one particular event that pertained to the eventual occurrence of the California Gold Rush was the Annexation of Texas in 1845. ​ The Annexation of Texas turned the Texan republic to the 28th state of the US on December 29, 1845. While Mexico had threatened that they would go to war with the US if they annexed Texas, they decided to hold off, and instead spoke out against something else instead: the conflicting borders between Texas and Mexico. The argument between Texas and Mexico would result in the beginning of the Mexican-American War, which had a total duration of two years. ​ The annexation was not directly correlated to the Gold Rush, but it played a major role in increasing the growing tensions between the US and Mexico. The war would end with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe-Hidalgo, which would hand over the state of California to the US, leading to the uncovering of gold and the beginning of the Gold Rush. ​ The Mexican-American War, while a major event in the beginning of the Gold Rush, also increased tensions further between the US and Mexico. Thus, when both countries began debating on who controlled the area of Mesilla Valley, it took a while for them to reach an agreement. Eventually, James Gadsden was sent to Mexico in order to arrange a deal. Many complications arose, however a treaty was signed, and what is now known as the Gadsden Purchase, the south border between Mexico and US was finally completed.

           In addition to this, the Mormon trail was another important aspect. The Mormon migration shaped the California Economy into something more merchant-like compared to just mining. One influential Mormon was Samuel Brennan.