The Mexican-American War _________________

The Mexican-American War was a pivotal conflict from 1846 to 1848 that significantly altered the territorial landscape of the United States. The war resulted in the United States acquiring a vast amount of territory, including the present-day states of California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico, among others.

The correct answer reflects the historical reality that the war directly led to the incorporation of New Mexico into the United States. This was formalized in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the war and ceded significant portions of land from Mexico to the U.S.

Understanding this context is crucial for grasping the importance of the war in shaping not just the geography, but also the socio-political dynamics of the region, including issues related to land ownership, cultural integration, and the impact on native populations. The other choices do not accurately represent the outcomes or implications of the war.