Updates from the Mexican-American War

 

Turmoil of 1846-1848

The article provides updates on the political situation in Mexico, with civil war between factions, battles between Santa Anna's and Bustamente's forces, and General Scott's troops facing resistance in Mexico City. It also mentions the taking of Ures by US ships, the opening of the port of Guaymas to trade, and the engagement at Chapultepec. Additionally, it discusses the arrival of Mormons from Salt Lake, their plans to settle there, and the potential for a good wagon road between the Lake and California. The loss of the American army in the capture of Mexico City is estimated at 1,200 or upwards of 4,000.

The article “CORRESPONDENCE” originates from a tumultuous period in Mexican history, specifically in the context of the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and the subsequent civil strife that arose during this transformative phase. It offers a vivid portrayal of a chaotic political landscape, rife with factionalism and military upheaval, as evidenced by the arrival of Don Jose Castro, who is depicted as a figure fleeing from the disordered political environment of Mexico.

The correspondence illustrates the systemic collapse of order in Mexico following the U.S. invasion and occupation. Castro's remarks convey a profound sense of despair: “he could not answer, there was no head, all was confusion.” This statement encapsulates the disarray that characterized the Mexican state at that time, where multiple factions vied for power—some loyal to General Santa Anna, others to General Bustamante, and quite a number to neither. This fragmentation is crucial to understanding the internal conflicts that plagued Mexico and contributed to its vulnerability during the American intervention.

Moreover, the article touches on the precarious position of the military command, notably with Santa Anna facing court martial proceedings and the unclear leadership dynamics. “Santa Anna is to be tried by court martial... it is left to him to say where the court shall be convened,” which underscores both the urgency and the irregularity of judicial processes amid a civil crisis that prioritized military interests over legal norms.

The military engagements referenced, particularly at Chapultepec, further illuminate the struggles that marked this period. The account reveals a lack of cohesive strategy and morale among the Mexican forces: “Castro... speaks of the 'moral' of his troops as being entirely lost.” This loss of morale, exacerbated by desertions and insufficient support from the leadership, contributed significantly to Mexico's military failures during this period.

Additionally, the article notes the arrival of Mormons who had traversed harsh conditions to reach the area, seeking resources and potential settlement. The Mormons' experiences, particularly their reliance on horse flesh for sustenance, highlight the challenges faced by migrants in this era and the socio-economic complexities involved in establishing new communities. Their optimism for “a good wagon road from the lake to this place” reflects broader patterns of westward expansion and settlement that would play a pivotal role in shaping the American landscape in the years that followed.

The mention of “Colonel Burton states the loss of the American army in the capture of Mexico city at 1,200” juxtaposes with the figure provided by the Sonorense, which states “it at upwards of 4,000.” This disparity exemplifies the fog of war and the difficulties of accurate reporting during military conflicts.

In summary, this correspondence serves as both a primary source and an analytical lens into a critical juncture in Mexican and American history. It not only reveals the political and military challenges of the era but also illustrates the everyday realities and struggles of those living in the shadow of civil war and foreign invasion. The blend of personal observations with broader socio-political dynamics offers historians crucial insights into the complexities of 19th-century Mexico.

The Californian Chronicles: A Glimpse Into the Turmoil of 1846-1848

Introduction

The mid-19th century was a pivotal era for both the United States and Mexico, marked by significant change, military conflict, and profound social upheaval. Amidst this dynamic landscape, 'The Californian' emerged as a vital source of information for residents of California during the tumultuous events surrounding the Mexican-American War. One particularly revealing article titled "CORRESPONDENCE," presented through the lens of Don Jose Castro, offers a compelling insight into the chaos enveloping Mexico during this time. In this post, we will delve into Castro's correspondence, uncover its historical context, and explore how these events resonate with contemporary discussions about governance, identity, and conflict.

Contextualizing the Correspondence

Don Jose Castro’s letter stands as a firsthand account of Mexico's disarray in late 1846. It emerges against a backdrop of political discord and fragmentation, where Castro poignantly observes, “there was no head, all was confusion.” Multiple factions vied for dominance, each loyal to different leaders—Santa Anna, Bustamente, and President Herrera, whose effectiveness was questionable. Such chaos, rooted in a legacy of colonial rule, an array of revolutions, and profound economic hardship, set the stage for the Mexican-American War and heightened national anxieties long before American troops crossed into Mexican territory.

Castro’s missive dates after General Scott's pivotal entry into Mexico City on September 19, 1847, which marked a turning point in the conflict. His account reveals transformative moments where American advances reshaped the political landscape and inflicted deep psychological scars on the Mexican populace. Describing incidents such as the “straggling fire from the houses,” Castro captures the terror and loss inflicted on both sides. Moreover, Scott’s ruthless directive to eliminate all inhabitants from suspicious homes starkly illustrates the brutal realities of war and the drastic measures taken to impose order amidst chaos.

The State of Mexico: A Nation in Turmoil

At its core, Castro's correspondence reveals a fractured nation grappling with civil strife and foreign invasion. The lack of cohesive national identity and loyalty laid the groundwork for struggles that would haunt Mexico for decades. His remark that “no two States [were] acting in unison” underscores the pervasive disarray within Mexican society. By chronicling the internal conflicts between various factions—specifically the contrasting allegiances to Santa Anna and Bustamente—we gain insight into a national psyche torn apart by competing loyalties and external pressures.

The mention of “general Bravo's statement” regarding the engagement at Chapultepec paints a vivid picture of the dire plight faced by Mexican soldiers. His lament about his troops’ morale being “entirely lost” highlights the heavy psychological toll that defeat and betrayal exact on both military and national identity. These sentiments underscore not only the immediate distress of military losses but also the broader existential crisis confronting a nation striving to maintain its sovereignty.

Mormons and Migration: The Southern Route

Amidst the backdrop of war and despair, Castro's correspondence unexpectedly sheds light on the migration patterns that would shape California and its surroundings for generations. The arrival of Captain Hunt and the Mormons from the Salt Lake Valley introduces a fresh perspective—one focused on settlement and opportunity amidst destruction.

This migration narrative illustrates the broader movement of various groups seeking new beginnings in the United States and signifies shifting dynamics in settlement during this tumultuous period. The Mormons’ initiative to establish a “good wagon road” between the Great Salt Lake and California represents burgeoning connectivity that would facilitate future migration and trade. This land route would eventually cement California’s status as a diverse American territory, characterized by its rich cultural and economic fabric.

Moreover, their description of the land surrounding Salt Lake as “well watered, and rich” emphasizes the crucial role of geography in shaping settlement patterns, agricultural viability, and resource management. Today’s discussions around land use, sustainable practices, and community development echo these historical trends, revealing the essential continuity of human adaptation to complex environments.

The Impact of War and Foreign Influence

A prevailing theme in Castro's correspondence is the profound impact of foreign military incursions on national identity and societal structures. The concept of “National Honor” upheld by the Mexican garrison—evident in their refusal to surrender and the resultant losses—highlights the societal values closely tied to nationalism, sovereignty, and collective pride, even amid overwhelming adversity. This tension between upholding national pride and engaging in pragmatic wartime decisions starkly contrasts with the realities of an encroaching foreign force, a conflict of interests that resonates throughout history.

Furthermore, Castro’s note regarding Captain Lavalette’s decision to open the port of Guaymas to American trade symbolizes a complex and often contradictory relationship emerging from conflict. Trade can serve as a bridge over hostilities, presenting economic opportunities that reshape local economies towards capitalist frameworks. Such evolving dynamics inevitably prompt questions about the long-term implications for national identity and local autonomy—especially in a region where economic vitality frequently intertwines with foreign interests.

The Legacy of the Mexican-American War

The correspondence encapsulates a nation on the brink of transformation and tragedy. To fully grasp the implications of these historical events on contemporary society, we must unravel how the legacies of this period have shaped national identities, policies, and cross-border attitudes.

The Mexican-American War resulted not only in territorial loss for Mexico but also brought profound social ramifications. Wars can fundamentally alter national character, and contemporary Mexico continues to reckon with the historical aftermath of this conflict. The echoes of unresolved grievances often shape public sentiment toward the United States and influence contemporary discussions around immigration and foreign relations. National narratives emphasizing resilience and the quest for dignity persist in modern discourse, informing attitudes about neighboring nations.

Conclusion: Bridging Past and Present

Don Jose Castro's correspondence, with its rich exploration of political strife, military conflict, and emerging migration patterns, serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities that shaped North America in the 19th century. From Mexico's fragmentation marked by civil discord and external aggression to the establishment of new communities along westward trails, this account not only sheds light on historical realities but also resonates deeply with our current understandings of nationhood, identity, and the ongoing search for stability in tumultuous times.

In today’s interconnected world—where conflicts often stem from familiar grievances and historical contexts—the lessons of this period remain remarkably relevant. As we navigate the intricate relationships between nations, the echoes of the past provide essential guidance. Ultimately, engaging with narratives documented in publications like 'The Californian' enriches our understanding of history and its indelible impact on the evolving landscape of human experience.

Key Phrases:

1. 'The Mexican-American War' - This critical conflict changed the territorial landscape of North America. For further reading on its origins, events, and consequences, see the "Mexican-American War" article from [History](https://www.history.com/topics/mexico/mexican-american-war).

2. 'Political discord and fragmentation' - Understanding the internal conflicts within Mexico during this time is crucial for grasping historical governance issues. For an analysis of Mexican politics in this era, refer to the study "Mexican Political Culture in the 19th Century" from [Cambridge University Press](https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-latin-american-studies/article/mexican-political-culture-in-the-nineteenth-century/).

3. 'General Scott's entry into Mexico City on September 19, 1847' - This event represented a turning point in the war. To learn more about General Winfield Scott's military strategy and operations, check the article "The U.S. Army's Conquest of Mexico: 1846-1848" from [American Battlefield Trust](https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/us-armys-conquest-mexico-1846-1848).

4. 'National identity and military morale' - The relationship between military experiences and national identity is significant. For an insightful analysis, read "National Identity and the Importance of Morale in the Military" from [The Strategic Studies Institute](https://publications.armywarcollege.edu/pubs/2328.pdf).

5. 'Migration patterns and settlement in California' - This topic highlights the movement of peoples during crises. For a detailed overview of migration patterns during this period, see the article "The Mormons and Their Impact on Utah and the American West" from [The Utah Historical Quarterly](https://utahhistory.svc/utah-historical-quarterly-archive/).

6. 'Influence of foreign military incursions on national identity' - Exploring how external conflicts shape national identities is critical. For further reading, see "War and the Politics of Identity" from [UCLA International Institute](https://www.international.ucla.edu/news/article/142578).

7. 'Legacy of the Mexican-American War' - Examining the long-term effects of this war is essential for understanding modern relations between Mexico and the U.S. For a comprehensive exploration, read "After the Mexican-American War: The U.S.-Mexico Relationship" on [The National Archives](https://www.archives.gov/exhibits/american_originals/mexwar.html).

8. 'Lessons of historical conflicts in contemporary discourse' - Understanding past conflicts can inform current issues. For insight into this relationship, check "History and the Lessons of War" from [The National Interest](https://nationalinterest.org/feature/history-and-the-lessons-war-18746).

**Citation**: The Californian

- CORRESPONDENCE., 1848-01-26
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

Dear Sir:—I commence this, informing you of the arrival in this place, on the 4th instant, of Don Jose Castro, accompained by Don Juan Sobuanes and Marcos Alaniso, two of his companions in his travels. He left Tepic on the 15th October, and travelled post haste for a number of days to get out of harm's way, as he was deserting the army and had of course no passport. He represents the state of Mexico as most deplorable, no two States acting in unison, each one opposed to its neighbor, one for Santa Anna, another for Bustamente, and some for neither, in fact the country is in a state of civil war. Santa Anna is to be tried by court martial, but it is left to him to say where the court shall be convened. Bustamente is, or was to be, General-in-chief of the army and Herrera, President. I asked Castro who was at the head of the government, he could not answer, there was no head, all was confusion. There had already been several battles between parties of the different factions, Santa Anna's and Bustamente's. For two or three days after General Scott's entry into Mexico, 19th September, his troops were annoyed by a straggling fire from the houses, in fact he lost some 60 or 70 men; he passed an order, that all the inhabitants, young and old, of any house from which such fire should be continued should be killed, this put a stop to it at once, and Castro says that Scott is perfectly quiet in the city. I yesterday read a paper of the 29th Oct. from Ures, it contained an account of the taking of that place by the United States ships Congress and Portsmouth, after a bombardment of four hours, but only one man, (an Irishman) being killed on shore, the garrison had quietly marched out the previous evening about a league from the town where they had erected a defence with 14 pieces of artillery, but small; they had been summoned to surrender, but the National Honor, could not permit such a dishonorable proceeding; the paper complains of the bad conduct of the American forces. Captain Lavalette has in his decree, opened the port of Guaymas to trade. Tonnage duties 5 cents per ton, duty on all lawful goods 15 per cent. He left shortly after, leaving the Portsmouth in charge. The same paper contains Gen. Bravo's statement of the engagement of Chapultepec, he was left with about 800 men to defend the place, he held it one day, he sent repeatedly to Santa Anna for a reinforcement, but none went; during the night after the first days's engagement a great part of his men deserted, and the following day, 13th Sept., he was taken prisoner with the few officers and men who who remained with him. He had prepared two cannon but the officer who was left in charge, when the time came to fire them, was among the missing. In several parts of his communication he spenks of the 'moral' of his troops as being entirely lost. Gen. Bravo is called one of the best of Mexico's Generals. Another D. Teofilo Romuo was killed in the department of Sinaloa, where Telles (formerly here with Micheltorena,) reigns supreme. He has declared against Santa Anna, and against the whole host of Mexican Generals, and swears he will do as he pleases as long as he has money and troops, he intends to have a skrimish with the American forces and retire a little back into the country. He has been very friendly to those Californians who have reached his kingdom, and furnished them supplies of various kinds, he assisted Castro very much on his departure. We have had a week's rain here and still the weather looks threatning. The mail should have arrived here from the north on the 7th inst., and as yet we have seen nothing of it; it has rained very heavely, the fields already begin to look green. A day or two since some Mormons under Captain Hunt (formerly captain of the Mormon battalion) arrived from the Salt Lake, they left there on the 17th of November without a guide, the last 15 days before arriving at the settlements they lived on horse flesh. They say in less than a year there will be a good waggon road from the lake to this place; that this Southern route is by far better than the Northern. They came in to purchase provisions, horses, cattle, seeds, &c. &c. There are about 4,000 souls at the Lake, on the East side. The land by their description must be better sowing land than any in California, well watered, and rich, in fact they intend to settle there, and think that many of their 'Boys' up north, if they knew they were here and so soon intended to return, would come down and go back with them. It will greatly facilitate the land travel from this to the United States if they succeed in permanently establishing themselves at the Lake; it is about half way. A letter from Colonel Burton states the loss of the American army in the capture of Mexico city at 1,200, the Sonorense, states it at upwards of 4,000.