LAD#12

Polk's War message
President James Polk delivered a speech in 1846 addressing the conflict with Mexico and their poor treatment of American citizens.  President Polk states that despite their poor treatment he still would like to attempt to resolve these issues peacefully.  Polk states that both the Mexican and American governments want to have an even negotiation and don't want the other one to dominate the treaty.  Polk states that America already tried to peacefully resolve these issues when John Sliddel was sent to try and purcahase some territory, in particular California and New Mexico, but the Mexicans sent him home without any attempts at negotiation.  Polk also states that he had already built up a small force of troops near the border in the event of an attack, which was a good thing because the Mexicans did attack and a few American soldiers lost their lives.  Polk concludes by saying that the government will continue to work towards a peaceful resolution, but he says that America must prepare for what appears to be an inevitable war.