Abstract
The Gadsden treaty, negotiated in 1853, was, at best, only a temporary solution to the problems which disturbed pacific relations between the United States and Mexico. In its amended form the treaty made no provision for the settlement of claims or the prevention of filibuster raids by American adventurers. It proved, moreover, to be a basis for new diplomatic issues during the Buchanan administration. |The spirit of manifest destiny, largely responsible for the acquisition of Mexican territory in l8i^8 and again in 1853, continued to pervade the United States. It would be offset at this time, however, by the fear on the part of the northern expansionists that the further acquisition of territory would contribute at the same time to the extension of slavery. During this period the Democratic party had charge of foreign affairs and it was in this party that the emotion of manifest destiny was especially strong.