History Lab: US Mexican War

History labs are a great way to make Social Studies content come to life. Investigative learning experiences in history labs help students learn historical content while developing critical reading and analytical skills - just like historians!

In the US-Mexican War History Lab, students examine the various reasons why the United States declared war on Mexico in 1846. Students work in groups to analyze eight sources and prepare to defend their responses to the focus question: What was the primary motivation for the United States going to war with Mexico in 1846?

To expand slavery.

To fulfill Manifest Destiny.

To gain more land and wealth.

To defend against a dangerous enemy.

The lab culminates in students individually producing a "This Day in History, May 13, 1846" entry for the History Channel website.