The Mexican-American War and Its Relevance to 21st Century Military Professionals

Abstract

Although the Mexican-American War occurred in mid-19th century, many lessons can be learned by 21st century military professionals for the current and future environment for which the United States military may find itself engaged. First, this war marks a clear transition in how the United States waged war in comparison to the major conflicts that proceeded, the War of 1812, and followed, the Civil War. Additionally, this war provides a historic example for analysis of current means in which the United States achieves strategic objectives through operational art. The Polk's administration's application of national power with diplomacy, information, economics, and the military were prevalent throughout the conflict. Finally, Winfield Scott, as General of the Army and field commander for the Mexico City campaign, demonstrates early examples of operational art and civil-military operations.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 19, 2017
Accession Number
AD1176482

Entities

People

  • Michael F. Clevenger

Organizations

  • Marine Corps University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • California
  • Civil War
  • Employment
  • Geography
  • Governments
  • International Conflicts
  • Military Education
  • Military History
  • Military Operations
  • Military Science
  • National Politics
  • National Security
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • Personnel Management
  • Recreation
  • Students
  • Treaties
  • United States
  • War
  • Warfare

Fields of Study

  • History

Readers

  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.
  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.