Shifting Alliances and the Heart of Strife

The Congress of Mexico in the Era of the Mexican-American War

The article discusses various updates on the ongoing conflict in Mexico, including the rejection of a proposal for Congress to declare themselves in "Recess," General Worth fortifying strong heights in San Quan and Loretto, reinforcements arriving from New Orleans, and the annulment of Mexican authority in different states. It also mentions horrific assassinations in Vallidolid and Tiximel, the arrival of U.S. forces in Chihuahua, the actions of Guerrillas causing unrest among the people, and the implementation of Mr. Walker's Tariff of duties in Mexican ports.

The article titled "CONGRESS OF MEXICO," dated May 25, provides a sweeping overview of the tumultuous events during the U.S.-Mexican War, a conflict that lasted from 1846 to 1848. The article serves as an essential primary source for understanding the social, political, and military dynamics of the time, as well as the impact of American forces on Mexican sovereignty and local governance.

One of the key highlights from the article is the refusal of the Mexican Congress to declare a "Recess," with the assertion that "Congress rejected the proposition." This decision underscores the determination of Mexican lawmakers to remain in their positions amid intense foreign aggression. Such resolve came in the context of a beleaguered government attempting to demonstrate continuity and authority in the face of a military invasion. The rejection can be interpreted as a signal of nationalistic sentiment, as Congress sought to project unity even amidst impending military threats to the capital.

Further detailing military operations, the article references General Worth's strategic actions, noting that he was "engaged in fortifying the strong heights of San Quan and Loretto," outlining a critical military measure aimed at solidifying U.S. control over advantageous locations around Mexico City. The arrival of 3,500 reinforcements from New Orleans is additionally significant for it indicates a bolstering of U.S. forces, enhancing their capacity to exert control and ultimately aimed at an escalation of military pressure against Mexican resistance.

The article also documents a chilling aspect of the wartime landscape, particularly in Yucatán, where "private letters state that all the whites—men, women, and children, have been assassinated or burnt alive:—by the blacks and Indians." This account of violence depicts not just the chaos stemming from war but also the complex inter-ethnic and societal tensions that erupted in the conflict's wake. These brutal acts of violence signal the breakdown of order and the existence of deep-seated grievances among local populations.

Moreover, the reference to U.S. forces engaging with "Guerrillas of Mexico" presents a particularly complicated dynamic. The phrase, "the Guerrillas are already calling down upon them the curses of their own people," illustrates the internal discord in Mexico, suggesting that the guerrilla fighters, while combatants against U.S. forces, faced alienation and backlash from their own communities. The fact that "the people had sought the aid of the U. S. troops" against these guerrillas reflects a multifaceted war environment where Americans were both invaders and perceived protectors, complicating the local perceptions of legitimacy and authority.

Lastly, the implementation of Walker's Tariff, described as having gone into effect in Vera Cruz, marks a critical shift in how the U.S. aimed to finance its military endeavors in Mexico. The article notes, "All goods sold to the U. S. Troops are of course free of duties," demonstrating a tactical economic strategy to support and sustain the occupying forces, thereby deepening the economic dependency of Mexican territories under U.S. control.

In conclusion, this article encapsulates the chaos and complexity of the U.S.-Mexican War, revealing not only military maneuvers and political stances but also socio-cultural ruptures within Mexico. Such documents are invaluable for historians seeking to understand the multifaceted realities of wartime, as well as the long-lasting implications of imperial conflict on national and local identities.

The Congress of Mexico in the Era of the Mexican-American War: Shifting Alliances and the Heart of Strife

Introduction

The mid-19th century was a tumultuous chapter in the Americas, characterized by territorial disputes, governance crises, and the incipient manifestations of an expansive westward movement by the United States. A key event that unfolded during this period was the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), a conflict that would leave indelible marks on both nations. An insightful article from *The Californian* dated May 25, 1847, offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex political and military landscape of Mexico, showcasing a Congress entangled in both foreign threats and internal chaos.

This article not only chronicles specific military encounters and legislative decisions but also unveils the wider socio-political ramifications of the war, marking it as a turning point in the history of the Americas. As we delve into the events detailed in the article, we will explore the dynamics within Mexico's Congress, the military fortifications led by General William Worth, the brutal realities of guerrilla warfare, and the emerging structures of authority aiming to fill the void left by a faltering government. Importantly, we will also reflect on how these historical events shaped the modern geopolitical landscape of North America.

The State of Mexican Congress

At the heart of the article lies a report on a secret session held by the Mexican Congress on that fateful May day in 1847. In a bold move, the committee proposed declaring a "recess"—a retreat from legislative responsibilities amid the chaos of war. However, this proposition met with swift rejection, signaling a determination to stand firm against the rampant American forces. This steadfastness was not merely a show of propriety; rather, it represented a conscious effort to assert the authority of a beleaguered government in the face of foreign aggression.

The actions taken during this tumultuous period underscore the precarious balance of power within the Mexican government. The ongoing war imposed immense strain on governance, forcing Congress to navigate a labyrinth of military threats and internal discord. As the government came under siege—both literally and metaphorically—the reluctance to abandon representative governance was palpable, even as conditions rapidly deteriorated.

Interestingly, these historical struggles resonate with today's political arenas, where legislative bodies often face unprecedented challenges requiring swift responses. The similarities underscore a timeless truth: governance under siege continues to shape political cultures across the globe.

General Worth and Military Strategies

As military operations escalated, General William Worth's efforts in fortifying the heights of San Juan and Loreto became vital for the defense of Mexico City. Capturing strategic locations like these was not merely a defensive tactic; it was a calculated move to deter the advancing U.S. forces actively. Worth’s declaration to "command the city" hinted at a dual objective: safeguarding Mexican interests while reinforcing determination against foreign encroachment.

Moreover, the article notes the arrival of 3,500 reinforcements from New Orleans—a significant boost to American military capacity. This movement points to the early complexity of military logistics, demonstrating that the rapid deployment and reinforcement of soldiers could decisively influence the outcomes of engagements.

Yet, amid these maneuvers, Worth's decree effectively dissolved any remnants of Mexican authority in the State of Puebla. This act not only marked a clear delineation of battle lines but introduced a complex matrix of new dynamics within the Mexican sociopolitical fabric. Many historians argue that this period catalyzed a crucial reevaluation of governance in Mexico and significantly influenced its path toward revolution.

Reflecting on the broader implications, the dissolution of government authority serves as a cautionary tale. Contemporary examples across the globe illustrate that challenges to state legitimacy can have far-reaching and long-lasting consequences.

The Horrors of Violence: Civil War and Internal Strife

The article paints a chilling picture of life in Yucatán, where reports describe the horrific fate of "all the whites—men, women, and children—who have been assassinated or burnt alive" by local minorities and indigenous groups. Such violence reveals that while a foreign war raged against the backdrop of U.S.-Mexican conflict, internal strife only exacerbated the chaos on the ground.

The brutal clashes between various factions—guerrilla forces and indigenous populations—highlight a grim reality: in times of national turmoil, societal bonds can fracture, leading to rampant violence and despair. The “guerrillas of Mexico” bred an atmosphere of fear and suspicion, complicating traditional military objectives. Historical injustices, particularly against indigenous peoples, festered in the absence of a stabilizing government, creating a vicious cycle of conflict.

These themes resonate with today’s world, where contemporary conflicts frequently echo similar tragic trajectories. The specter of civil wars often complicates external interventions, a reality that engages the urgent need for inclusive governance. The lessons from history regarding the importance of establishing cohesive societal structures remain disappointingly relevant.

The U.S. Military and Authority Dynamics

In Chihuahua, reports from Captain Pike’s vanguard illustrate the intricate interplay between U.S. forces and local responses. As the article reveals, under the leadership of Colonel Doniphan, the U.S. military seized control of the city, capturing adversaries while liberating individuals held hostage by local indigenous groups. Such interventions underscore the dual nature of military campaigns—not only altering the physical landscape of battle but also reshaping perceptions of authority among civilians.

Compounding these challenges, General Scott’s ruthlessness against guerrilla factions—including hanging captured rebels—exposes the lengths to which the U.S. military would go to maintain order within occupied territories. This exertion of authority speaks volumes about how wars can blur the lines between combatants and non-combatants, complicating moral considerations and raising questions about the implications of military force.

Through these historical lenses, parallels emerge with contemporary conflicts, emphasizing the enduring need to comprehend the far-reaching effects of military interventions—both for the nations directly involved and for civilian populations caught in the crossfire.

Economic Ramifications and Tariff Changes

Additionally, the article introduces Mr. Walker's tariff policy, a significant alteration in the economic landscape that sought to compel Mexican cooperation in funding the war effort. Imposed at Vera Cruz, this tariff marked a notable shift in how war and economics intersected, with duties applied to all imported goods, save for supplies directed to U.S. troops.

In this context, we witness the nascent seeds of economic imperialism embedded within U.S. foreign policy. Tariff measures served not just immediate financial needs during the conflict but also set the stage for enduring grievances that would haunt U.S.-Mexico relations long after the war ended.

Today, discussions about trade and sanctions frequently mirror these historical themes, reminding us of the delicate balance between economic policy and military force. The intricacies of diplomacy and coercion remain pertinent, calling attention to the ongoing impact of economic interactions on international relations.

Conclusion

The article chronicling the proceedings of the Mexican Congress amid the tumult of the Mexican-American War encapsulates not just a moment of historical upheaval but also serves as a critical lens through which we can examine our contemporary world. The struggles for authority, social discord, and the intricate interplay of military and economic strategies weave a complex narrative that transcends time.

By reflecting on these pivotal events, we gain insights not only into the specific historical context of the 1840s but also into the timeless nature of human conflict and the quest for governance. As we grapple with the legacies of the past and observe familiar patterns emerging in various global contexts today, we uncover a fundamental truth: history is not simply a relic; it is an ongoing dialogue that shapes our responses to contemporary challenges.

Through this historical prism, we can better appreciate the experiences of governance under siege, the dynamics of internal conflict, military interventions, and the economic forces that shape nations. Learning from these intricate patterns will not only inform our understanding of the past but may also illuminate pathways toward more peaceful futures. Thus, the echoes of history urge us toward a commitment to understanding in all spheres of human interaction.

Key Phrases:

1. **Mexican-American War (1846-1848)** - This conflict played a pivotal role in shaping the territorial and political landscape of North America. For further reading, see *The Mexican-American War: A History* by Richard Bruce Winders on [Texas State Historical Association](https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/mexican-american-war).

2. **Civil War and Internal Strife in Mexico** - The internal conflicts during this period set the stage for future sociopolitical upheaval. Explore this informative piece titled *The Mexican Civil War: A Loss of Innocence* from [The New Yorker](https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/09/25/the-mexican-civil-war).

3. **General William Worth and Military Strategies** - Worth's military strategies were crucial in the defense of Mexico City against U.S. forces. For an in-depth analysis of his strategies, refer to *General William J. Worth and the Mexican-American War* on [The American Civil War Museum](https://acwm.org/learn/general-william-j-worth-and-the-mexican-american-war).

4. **Guerrilla Warfare and Societal Bonds** - The impact of guerrilla warfare on societal integrity and governance is a relevant topic. See *Guerrilla Warfare: A Historical Perspective* from [Smithsonian Magazine](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-evolution-of-guerrilla-warfare-180982186/).

5. **Economic Ramifications of the War and Tariff Changes** - This highlights the intersection of war and economic policy. For more on economic policies during conflicts, check out *Trade Policy and Conflict* on [Council on Foreign Relations](https://www.cfr.org/report/trade-policy-and-conflict).

6. **Military Interventions and Authority Dynamics** - The repercussions of military interventions on authority and civilian perceptions are an important subject. Look into *The Consequences of Military Intervention* on [RAND Corporation](https://www.rand.org/pubs/monograph_reports/MR1836/MR1836.chap2.html).

7. **Historical Injustices against Indigenous Peoples** - Understanding historical injustices in Mexico can provide context to present-day issues. For further reading, see *The Cultural and Historical Context of Indigenous Rights in Mexico* on [Human Rights Watch](https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/10/12/indigenous-rights-in-mexico).

These articles and resources will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the key issues presented in the text regarding the Mexican-American War, its implications, and its lasting effects on Mexico and U.S. relations.

**Citation**: The Californian,

- CONGRESS OF MEXICO., 1847-08-07
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

—"In secret session to-day a debate took place on the part of the committee on the government, which report recommends that Congress should declare themselves in "Recess," Congress rejected the proposition." This is considered an indication that the Mexican Congress intend to abide the attack on the city without lesving their seats. May 25th. Gen. Worth engaged in fortifying the strong heights of San Quan and Loretto, which command the city, news arrives that 3,500 men had embarked at New Orleans to reinforce the army. Gen. Worth publishes a decree annulling all Mexican Authority in the State of Pueblo; and absolving the people from their allegiance, also that he would punish any who should attempt to execise authority under that govt. In the same manner as had been previously published regarding the State of Vera Cruz. Merida, 12th of March. YUCATAN.—Vallidolid and Tiximel have been the theatres of most horrible assassinations—in the first named city private letters state that all the whites—men, women, and children, have been assassinated or burnt alive:—by the blacks and Indians. Parras, May 19th CHIHUAHUA, PARRAS &c.—"On the 11th inst. the vanguard of the U. S. forces—100 regulars under Capt. Pike, and on the 13th the whole division which have occupied Chihuahua 600 men, more or less with 14 pieces of cannon, came in. They encamped in the Alameda. Their chief is Col. Doniphan, the soldiers seem to hold him in great estimation; on the 17th they left for Saltillo, having received orders to do so from the U. S." They have killed a considerable number of the hostile Indians and liberated 12 of our people who had been taken by the Indians." The Guerrillas of Mexico.—As was predicted the Guerrillas are already calling down upon them the curses of their own people, at one place the people rose en masse and put a Guerrilla chief to death, in other places, the people had sought the aid of the U. S. troops, for protection against these marauders. It is said that Gen. Scott had hung up some of them who were taken robbing : VERA CRUZ.— Mr Walkers Tariff of duties in Mexican ports to make the Mexicans contribute to the expenses of the war went into operation at Vera Cruz on the 7th May. Mr. Dimond late U.S. consul collector of the port : All goods imported whether from the U. S. or elsewhere pay duties, and at nearly the same rates as under the old Mexican Tariff, upon which the present rates are based—All goods sold to the U. S. Troops are of course free of duties, to the sutlers.

The article discusses modifications to the tariff in California, specifically regarding military contributions on imports. These modifications include changes to duties on cotton products, allowances for deficiencies in imported goods, an extension of the period for goods to remain in warehouse before duty payment, and exemption of goods imported during the war from new import duties or confiscation by Mexico. The modifications were recommended by the Secretary of the Treasury and approved by President James K. Polk.

The Tariff of 1847: Military Contributions and Economic Shifts in Early California

The excerpt from the document titled "TARIFF," dated June 10, 1847, provides significant insight into the economic policies of the United States during the Mexican-American War, particularly in relation to trade and military operations. The tariff modifications proposed by Secretary of the Treasury R.J. Walker reflect a strategic approach to resource management in occupied territories and demonstrate how economic measures were employed to support military endeavors.

One of the standout features of Walker's recommendations is the imposition of a **“duty as a military contribution of thirty percent ad valorem”** on various manufactured goods. This points to the dual role tariffs played at the time; they were not merely tools of trade regulation, but also instruments of war financing. The fact that these contributions were labeled as “military” reflects the urgency and necessity of funding wartime efforts through whatever means available.

Walker also emphasizes practicality in duty collection by stating that **“the duties shall be collected on the net weight only”** in cases where goods are packaged and that allowances would be made for “deficiencies, leakage, breakage, or damage.” This clause indicates an awareness of the logistical challenges faced during the importation of goods, especially in a war context, where transport could be fraught with difficulties. Such considerations were critical in an era when trade was often disrupted by conflict, and ensuring the economic viability of importing goods was necessary for sustaining military operations.

Furthermore, the extension of the warehousing period from thirty to ninety days illustrates an effort to provide flexibility to merchants engaged in trade under the pressures of wartime logistics. Walker notes that **“within said period of ninety days any portion of the said goods on which the duties...have been paid, may be taken...from the warehouse, and entered free of any further duty,”** which indicates an attempt to stimulate trade and fluidity in commerce under American military governance. This approach likely aimed to foster goodwill among merchants and ensure a steady supply chain for military needs.

Lastly, it is notable that Walker addresses future peace agreements by declaring that it is **“intended to provide by the treaty of peace that all goods imported during the war into any of the Mexican ports in our military possession shall be exempt from any new import duty or confiscation by Mexico.”** This foresight into post-war economic relations indicates an understanding of how tariffs could be used not only as immediate measures but also as instruments of long-term policy that would shape U.S.-Mexico relations after the conflict. Such provisions aimed to reassure traders and businesses that their investments during wartime would not be jeopardized following a potential peace settlement.

In summary, this document reflects a calculated economic strategy intertwined with military necessity during a critical juncture in American history. The modifications to the tariff, alongside the context of the Mexican-American War, reveal how tariffs were employed not just for revenue generation but also for facilitating trade and stabilizing relations under occupation, setting the stage for future economic interactions between the U.S. and Mexico. Through Walker's recommendations, we see the early manifestations of how economic policies are often inextricably linked to military actions and international relations.

The Tariff of 1847: Military Contributions and Economic Shifts in Early California

In the mid-19th century, California teetered on the brink of transformation, a period marked by the tumult of the Mexican-American War, the whirlwind of the Gold Rush, and sweeping changes in governance and economic frameworks. Among the intriguing artifacts from this era is a document dated June 10, 1847, outlining modifications to tariff regulations poised to impact the nascent Californian ports. This article not only explores the economic fabric of California at this pivotal moment but also delves into the broader implications of tariff policies during a significant chapter in American history.

Historical Context

The mid-1840s were a watershed period for California. Once part of Mexico, California was annexed by the United States in the aftermath of the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). This violent conflict stemmed from a tangled web of manifest destiny, territorial expansion, and diplomatic breakdowns. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the war in February 1848, would soon formalize American ownership over California and what would later become the Southwest. However, the events leading up to this treaty were already reshaping the political landscape of the region.

As waves of Anglo settlers arrived and gold was discovered in 1848, a mass migration surged forth, forever altering California’s demographic and economic status. Yet, before the gold rush could fully transform the state, the management of imports, exports, and economic regulations was urgently required.

Tariffs and Military Contributions

An illuminating letter from R. J. Walker, the Secretary of the Treasury, reveals the complexities of navigating a war economy while adapting to a newly acquired territory. Walker’s proposed modifications were characterized as "military contributions," a term reflecting the pressing realities of wartime logistics and financial necessity. In this context, tariffs assumed a dual purpose—they were not merely means for revenue generation; they were also strategies for sustaining the military presence in Mexico as the U.S. endeavored to stabilize its control over its newly conquered lands.

Among the recommendations was a **30% duty on all cotton and mixed-material goods**, a move that not only generated substantial revenue but also influenced trade patterns. The U.S. government effectively wielded tariffs as a tool to support military operations while simultaneously asserting economic control over the territories it was incorporating.

Breakdown of the Recommended Modifications

Let's delve deeper into the key modifications outlined in Walker’s document, each a strategic maneuver aimed at addressing the unique challenges of this transitional period.

1. **Duty on Cotton Goods**: By levying a duty on cotton goods—while exempting wool, worsted, and silk—the government positioned cotton as a vital commodity in the American economy. This tariff was intended not only to boost wartime revenues but also to stimulate domestic production.

2. **Collection Procedures**: The outlined procedures for collecting duties based on net weight were designed with the realities of maritime trade in mind, recognizing that issues like leakage and damage were commonplace. As emphasized in the document, "An allowance shall be made for all deficiencies, leakage, breakage, or damage proved to have actually occurred during the voyage..." This acknowledgment of practical challenges illustrated a commitment to fostering trade rather than stifling it through overly punitive measures.

3. **Extended Warehouse Period**: The decision to increase the warehousing period from **30 to 90 days** carried significant implications. By allowing goods to remain longer without incurring immediate duties, the regulations aimed to relieve financial pressures on importers. This extension would give importers the flexibility to navigate a volatile market and ensure their products reached consumers without incurring unnecessary costs.

4. **Exemptions from Future Duties**: The proposed stipulation that goods imported during military control would be exempt from new tariffs once peace was restored conveyed strategic foresight. It was a calculated effort to maintain positive relations with the local Mexican populace during this transition. Encouraging trade and introducing favorable policies were seen as essential to fostering stability in a territory experiencing such sweeping change.

 Impact on Trade and Economic Structures

These modifications not only reflected the immediate needs of wartime America but also highlighted broader trends in American economic policies of the era. While military funding drove the rationale behind these tariffs, they would eventually pivot towards commercial interests. As California’s population surged and the Gold Rush lured countless prospectors, the economic landscape began shifting from military contributions to the establishment of robust trade systems.

This economic evolution was crucial for supporting the infrastructure that would accommodate the state’s rapid growth. Ports like San Francisco emerged not just as trade hubs but also as vital entry points for those eager to embark on the Californian dream. The ability to import goods without excessive taxation during this transformative era was indispensable for store owners and entrepreneurs striving to meet the demands of a burgeoning population.

California and National Economics: A Unified System

As the late 1840s unfolded, the interplay of state and national factors began reshaping California’s economy. The westward expansion of the U.S. catalyzed a framework within which tariffs not only served immediate fiscal goals but also spurred competition in emerging markets.

California's ports became vital conduits for local goods and international trade, each economic interaction contributing to the dawning of a national identity still in its formative stages. The imposition of tariffs proved to be a double-edged sword; while they ensured military funding, excessively high tariffs could stifle burgeoning industries. Walker’s careful balancing act of reduction and regulation was a deliberate strategy to avoid alienating commercial factions in California that sought to grow their businesses amidst the upheaval of war.

The Legacy of Tariffs in Today’s Context

Fast forward to the present day, and tariffs have assumed center stage once more in discussions surrounding international trade and domestic economics. Often viewed as tools for protecting American industries, tariffs today come with complexities akin to those faced in 1847.

Just as in Walker’s time, contemporary tariffs influence global supply chains, consumer prices, and trade relations. Debates surrounding tariffs on products like steel, automotive parts, and technology resonate with historical conversations about establishing fair trade practices while simultaneously promoting national interests.

This historical overview of the tariff system underscores a persistent theme: the intricate balance of national economic priorities and international trade commitments. The tumult and negotiations of the past reveal a timeless truth that still informs today’s economic discourse, illustrating the intersection of local needs, national politics, and global commerce.

In a world where international markets have become increasingly interdependent, examining the past—especially through the lens of the 1847 tariff modifications—offers valuable insights for navigating current and future economic challenges.

Conclusion

The modifications outlined in R. J. Walker's letter and sanctioned by President James K. Polk represent a crucial turning point in California's economic history, marking a shift from military necessity to burgeoning trade opportunities spurred by the Gold Rush. More than mere adjustments to tariffs, these changes encapsulate broader themes of economic expansion and national identity that continue to resonate today.

Understanding the tariffs of 1847 allows us to frame contemporary economic debates within this historical context, reinforcing the notion that decisions made under pressure can echo through time, shaping not only commerce but also the societal structures that emerge alongside evolving economies. As California navigated its formative years, these foundational choices regarding economic policies laid the groundwork for its eventual rise as a global economic powerhouse.

Key Phrases:

1. **Mexican-American War** - A significant conflict in U.S. history that led to California's annexation. For further reading, see this article on the [Mexican-American War](https://www.history.com/topics/westward-expansion/mexican-american-war).

2. **Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo** - The treaty that formally ended the Mexican-American War. For more information, refer to this summary of the [Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo](https://www.archives.gov/education/lessons/guadalupe-hidalgo).

3. **California Gold Rush** - A major event that transformed California's economy and demographics in the late 1840s. Explore more in this detailed piece on the [California Gold Rush](https://www.history.com/topics/westward-expansion/california-gold-rush).

4. **Tariff policies in the 19th century** - These policies played a crucial role in shaping the economy during the 1800s. For further understanding, check this overview of [19th-century tariffs](https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-economic-hist a/8c2d76046f2e083386bb95aa8a3b8618).

5. **Economic implications of military contributions** - The relationship between military needs and economic shifts during territorial expansion. For in-depth research, visit this analysis of [military economics](https://www.nber.org/papers/w1050).

6. **Impact of tariffs on trade patterns** - The way tariffs influenced imports and exports in the context of wartime economy. Dig deeper with this research on [tariffs and trade](https://www.piie.com/publications/policy-briefs/tariffs-and-trade-evidence-empirical-analysis).

7. **California's demographic transformations** - The effects of the Gold Rush and migration patterns on California's population. For insight, see this paper on the [demographic changes in California](https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/How-the-Gold-Rush-Changed-San-Francisco-12514592.php).

8. **Significance of ports in economic development** - The role of ports like San Francisco in California's growth. Further reading can be found in this article about [ports as economic drivers](https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/publications/importance-us-ports).

9. **Contemporary relevance of historical tariffs** - How past tariff decisions influence current economic policies and debates. Explore this discussion on [tariffs in modern economics](https://www.cnbc.com/2021/01/06/how-tariffs-influence-global-economy.html).

10. **Balance of national economic priorities and international trade** - The ongoing tension between domestic policies and global commerce. For a comprehensive overview, see this article on [global trade and national interests](https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2020/01/05/national-interest-in-global-trade).

**Citation**: The Californian
- TARIFF., 1847-12-01
https://cdnc.ucr.edu/ University of California Riverside Digital Newspaper Archive

Original Article:

The following modification of the Tariff does not, by order of the Governor, effect the previous instructions, as to the amount to be levied for duties in any of the ports of California: Treasury Department, June 10th, 1847. Sir:—In compliance with your directions, I have examined the questions presented by the Secretary of War, in regard to the military contributions proposed to be levied in Mexico, under the tariff and regulations sanctioned by you on the 31st of March last, and respectfully recommend the following modifications, namely: 1st. On all manufactures of cotton or of cotton mixed with any other material except wool, worsted and silk in the piece or in any other form, a duty as a military contribution of thirty per cent. ad valorem. 2d. When goods on which the duties are levied by weight, are imported into said ports in the package, the duties shall be collected on the net weight only; and in all cases an allowance shall be made for all deficiencies, leakage, breakage, or damage proved to have actually occurred during the voyage of importation, and made known before the goods are warehoused. 3d. The period named in the eighth of said regulations, during which the goods may remain in warehouse, before the payment of duties, is extended from thirty to ninety days, and within said period of ninety days any portion of the said goods on which the duties, as a military contribution, have been paid, may be taken, after such payment, from the warehouse, and entered free of any further duty at any other port or ports of Mexico in our military possession, the facts of the case, with a particular description of said goods, and a statement that the duties thereon have been paid being certified by the proper officer of the port or ports of reshipment. 4th It is intended to provide by the treaty of peace that all goods imported during the war into any of the Mexican ports in our military possession shall be exempt from any new import duty or confiscation by Mexico in the same manner as if said goods had been imported and paid the import duties prescribed by the Government of Mexico. Most respectfully, Your obedient servant, (Signed) R. J. WALKER, Secretary of the Treasury. To the President. —— The modifications as above recommended by the Secretary of the Treasury, are approved by me, and the Secretary of War and the Secretary of the Navy will give the proper orders to carry them into effect. (Signed) JAMES K. POLK.