Throughout Mexico’s early history the country was beset by political and economic instability. Growth was hampered by the country’s divisive geography.

From 1821 to 1845, the country suffered many coups and civil wars, led by men who sought to create governments ranging from republics to monarchies. This continual confusion made governance almost impossible—particularly for a large nation that stretched to Oregon on the north, Guatemala to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and through Texas to the Louisiana and Arkansas border on the east.

By 1840, Mexico had about 7 million inhabitants, and 71 percent of those lived in the valley around Mexico City. War and coups destroyed much of the country’s economic infrastructure, closing many of Mexico's profitable silver mines, pulling farmers from fields to fight, and destroying trade. The country was burdened with debt, a portion of which was owed to the United States due to claims made by U.S. citizens against the Mexican government.

Regardless of any political differences, Mexican leaders were determined to keep Texas from being annexed by the U.S. The Mexican government viewed annexation as a challenge to its national honor and an act of war.