| American forces seized California from Mexican forces using a combination, of deception, serendipity and brute force. President Polk sent a number of agents to foment rebellion and seize power from the Mexicans who held it only tenuously. In addition he ordered the American navy to seize the port cities in case of war, which they did when war broke out. Finally a small force under General Kearny was sent to California. That force was critical in gaining final control from the Mexicans. |
