Was the U.S. Mexican War a Just war Day 1

Agenda for Friday March 17 2017 Answer this question in your notebook: In the late 1840’s, the United States was actively debating how to acquire additional territory from the Mexican Government after annexing Texas. President Polk chose to pursue a war policy, and angered many politicians who called the war “unjust”. In your opinion, what makes a war “just or unjust” and explain why you believe that your criteria make a war just or unjust. Define a “just war”. Review Primary source documents related to the U.S. Mexican war in your “teams.” Debate with another team if you think the U.S. Mexican war was just and provide evidence from your primary sources. Turn in Texas Revolution Article Review Questions to period basket Homework: Unit 9 E.Q. Sheets due March 23; Unit 9 Test March 23

Just war theory Also known as Bellum Iustum Three key characteristics – Not fought for selfish reasons – Fought for some higher purpose – Fought to maintain peace in the future

Preparation for the debates Each team has been assigned a viewpoint (Mexican war was just or unjust). Review all primary source documents and determine which documents best support your position. Write the information in the box that supports your position.

Debate 1: Mexican war was just Pair up with a team that has an opposite view from your own. Side A( the Mexican war was just) presents their information first to side B. Side B takes notes on the key arguments made by side A. You have five minutes to present your arguments.

Debate part 2 Side B (the war is unjust) presents next. Side A takes notes on side B’s main arguments.