Treaty of Cahuenga Concludes California Hostilities
January 13th, 1847
January 13th, 1847

How Long Ago?
178 years, 2 months, 2 days ago
Location
Cahuenga Pass, California, United States
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Mexican-American War
People
- John C. Frémont
- Andrés Pico
Links & References
Tags
Treaty of Cahuenga Concludes California Hostilities
The Treaty of Cahuenga marked the end of military conflicts in California during the Mexican-American War. Signed by Lieutenant Colonel John C. Frémont representing American forces and General Andrés Pico of the Mexican Army, the treaty established a ceasefire and called for the surrender of Mexican troops in California. This agreement took place at Cahuenga Pass, near present-day Los Angeles, and was crucial in solidifying American control over California in the aftermath of the war. The treaty also paved the way for the eventual annexation of California as a state within the United States.
Treaty ended conflicts in California during the war.
Signed by John C. Frémont and Andrés Pico.
Marked a shift in control from Mexico to the U.S.
Contributed to California's statehood in 1850.
What Happened?
The Treaty of Cahuenga was signed on a significant date, effectively concluding the hostilities of the Mexican-American War in California. As the war progressed through the late 1840s, American forces, mainly under the command of John C. Frémont and Commodore John D. Sloat, gained control over major parts of California, establishing a foothold for the U.S. in the region. The treaty was negotiated at Cahuenga Pass, a strategic location that facilitated communication and movement in the southern area of California.
Lieutenant Colonel John C. Frémont, a prominent military leader and explorer, played a central role in the negotiations, representing American interests. On the opposing side, General Andrés Pico, a prominent figure in the Mexican military, signed the treaty on behalf of Mexican troops who had been engaged in defending California against U.S. incursions. The agreement essentially called for a cessation of hostilities, the surrender of Mexican troops in California, and set the stage for a peaceful transition to American governance.
The Treaty of Cahuenga was significant not only for its immediate military impact but also for its broader implications for California's future. The document laid the foundation for American authority in the region, leading to California's admission into the Union as a state in 1850. This was part of a larger pattern of U.S. territorial expansion during the 19th century, which was fueled by the idea of Manifest Destiny, the belief that the United States was destined to expand across the North American continent.
Why Does it Matter?
This treaty is interesting as it marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history, facilitating the westward expansion and the eventual incorporation of California into the United States. The Treaty of Cahuenga not only ended the conflict in California but also set a precedent for how conquered territories could be transitioned into American states. Its significance lies in shaping California's future and its role in the American identity.
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