Curatorial Statement: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and its Lasting Impact

This mini-exhibit explores the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848), a pivotal document that ended the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and significantly altered the geopolitical landscape of North America. The exhibit showcases a collection of primary and secondary sources that illuminate the context, consequences, and ongoing debates surrounding the treaty.

Why These Sources?

This selection combines primary sources directly related to the treaty with secondary sources offering historical context and analysis. The primary sources provide firsthand accounts and perspectives, while the secondary sources offer scholarly interpretations and insights. Together, they paint a multifaceted picture of the treaty’s significance.

Primary Sources:

1. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848):The centerpiece of the exhibit is the text of the treaty itself. Examining the treaty’s articles reveals the territorial cessions by Mexico, the rights granted to Mexican citizens remaining in the ceded territory, and the financial compensation offered by the United States.
2. Political Cartoon from Mexico City Newspaper (1848):A political cartoon from a Mexican newspaper during the war’s aftermath provides a glimpse into Mexican public opinion. Analyzing the imagery and symbolism can reveal popular sentiment regarding the war and the treaty’s perceived consequences.
3. Letter from a U.S. Soldier Fighting in Mexico (1847):A firsthand account from a U.S. soldier stationed in Mexico offers a unique perspective on the war’s human cost and the motivations of American soldiers. This letter can shed light on the prevailing attitudes of U.S. citizens towards Mexico and the war’s objectives.

Secondary Sources:

1. “The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo: A Legacy of Conflict” by Richard Griswold del Castillo (2002):This scholarly book delves into the historical context leading to the war, the negotiation process, and the treaty’s long-term implications. It provides valuable insights into the political and economic factors influencing the treaty’s terms.
2. “The Ongoing Debate over the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo” by Laura Gomez (2019):This article explores the ongoing scholarly and public debates surrounding the treaty’s interpretation and its impact on Mexican Americans. It highlights the continuing relevance of the treaty for understanding issues of land ownership, cultural identity, and citizenship rights.
3. Official Website of the Tohono O’odham Nation(http://www.tonation-nsn.gov/)** : This website serves as a valuable resource for understanding the experiences of Indigenous communities impacted by the treaty. The website may provide primary sources such as tribal council records or oral histories that shed light on how Indigenous groups navigated the changing political landscape following the treaty.

By examining these primary and secondary sources together, we gain a deeper understanding of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and its enduring legacy. The exhibit encourages critical reflection on the complex historical events that shaped North America and continue to resonate today.