On first glance, the Mexican-American War seems to be a simple border dispute. However, upon closer examination, it is clear that the war was also about slavery, politics, citizenship, and resources. Illuminating text explores the events preceding the war, the motivations of the key players, and the effects on Mexican, American, and indigenous people. Primary source material will bring the reader back in time to the period of westward expansion in America, when manifest destiny went from idea to reality. Colorful images, period maps, and provocative questions about the war engage young readers with this exciting period in American history.