Battle of Mexico City

Mexico City was defended by a series of fortresses that guarded the road to the city. American forces succeeded in approaching the first of the forces by stealth. One by one the American forces managed to capture each of the fortresses. Finally, On September 13, 1847, Mexico City was in American hands, and the war came to a swift end.

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Throughout his journey to Mexico City, Scott encountered no further substantial resistance. In contrast, Santa Ana was relying on the formidable fortifications of the city to subdue Scott. President Polk sought one final opportunity to negotiate a peace settlement with the Mexicans, but his overture was met with rejection. Santa Ana, however, asserted that he would accept the terms if he were compensated with $10,000 immediately and $1,000,000 upon the surrender. He was indeed given the $10,000, but thereafter, there were no further communications regarding this matter.

The route to Mexico City was via a series of causeways that led to the eastern outskirts of the city. Santa Ana had fortified these approaches significantly. Once again, Captain Lee’s reconnaissance proved instrumental. He discovered an unguarded passageway through the marches, which partially submerged, allowing the American army to proceed. Consequently, the American forces advanced closer to the city. Santa Ana’s reduced communication lines enabled him to mobilize troops to impede the American advance. General Valencia, without explicit orders from Santa Ana, opted to proceed with a force of 4,000 men to flank the American forces. The American forces subsequently advanced upon Valencia’s forces once more, following a path identified by Lee. The American engaged the Valencia forces, who fought with great ferocity. Santa Ana responded with a force of 9,000 men. The Americans initially feared an attack from both sides, but a sudden downpour compelled Santa Ana to withdraw. That night, the American forces marched toward Valencia’s lines at Conreras. The following morning, they reached the rear of his lines and launched an assault there. The American forces decisively routed the Mexican forces. Those who were not killed or wounded withdrew swiftly. The American pursued the Mexicans to Churubusco, a subsequent fortress, where they attacked without adequate reconnaissance. The American forces executed three costly and unsuccessful assaults on the fortress. Finally, American reinforcements arrived, and in a final and decisive assault, they managed to capture the fortifications. American forces pursued the Mexican withdrawal to the city wall of Mexico City. In a two-day battle, American forces suffered 139 fatalities and 876 casualties. The Mexican forces lost approximately 4,000 killed and wounded, as well as 3,000 captured.

Two additional Mexican fortresses were captured: Molino del Rey, which was swiftly taken, and Chapultepec, a well-defended castle with surrounding fortifications. Despite heavy losses, the American forces successfully assaulted and captured Chapultepec. The following day, the city surrendered.