This article is a statement from President Donald J. Trump commemorating the 178th anniversary of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (February 2, 1848), which ended the Mexican-American War. The President uses the historical milestone to draw parallels to his current "America First" agenda and border security policies.

Historical Commemoration:

• • Territorial Expansion: The President honors the victory that secured the American Southwest and fulfilled the vision of "Manifest Destiny," expanding the U.S. to the Pacific Ocean.

  • Military Success: He praises the strategy and resolve of President James K. Polk and Generals Zachary Taylor and Winfield Scott, noting that the treaty resulted in the cession of 525,000 square miles of land.

  • Sovereignty: The war is framed as a necessary defense of American borders and national dignity following disputes over Texas.

Modern Policy Parallels:
President Trump links the 1848 victory to his current administration’s actions in the Western Hemisphere, highlighting several key initiatives:

• • Border Enforcement: He characterizes the current situation at the southern border as an "invasion" and vows to continue mass deportations and the dismantling of narco-terrorist networks.

  • Regional Security: The President mentions reasserting the "Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine" and "peace through strength" to ensure the hemisphere remains free of hostile foreign influence (specifically mentioning the Panama Canal).

  • Trade and Diplomacy: He cites historic trade deals with El Salvador, Argentina, Ecuador, and Guatemala as evidence of a renewed focus on regional prosperity.

Conclusion:
Contextualized within the 250th anniversary of American independence, the statement frames the legacy of the Mexican-American War as an enduring testament to American military might and the "unmatched power of the American spirit." The President pledges to remain unwavering in prioritizing American interests and national sovereignty.