Existing comment:
1846: Ho! For Mexico!
With the outbreak of war in 1846, Fort McHenry changed from a quiet military post to a scene of bustling activity. Though far removed from the battlefields in Mexico, Fort McHenry served a vital role as a training ground, supply depot, and embarkation point.
The American flag took on a new role as well. For the first time, American troops carried the stars and stripes into battle. The military's extensive use of the flag and the thousands who enthusiastically volunteered to fight reflected the growing nationalism of a young country feeling its strength as an emerging world power.
The scene above depicts volunteers of the Fifth Regiment, Maryland Volunteer Infantry. On July 15, 1847, officers of this regiment presented a gold-handled cane to their commander. Colonel Hickman, prior to their departure for Mexico. This festive mood would stand in stark contrast to the rights of long marches in a hot climate with poor food and little water.
As a result of the war, Mexico lost almost half of its territory, paving the way for the addition of states to the union and stars on the flag. |