Third Battle of Tuxpan facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Third Battle of Tuxpan
Part of Mexican–American War
Date June 30, 1847 Location Tuxpan, Veracruz Result United States victory
Belligerents
United States	Mexico
Commanders and leaders
Matthew C. Perry	Unknown
Strength
Land: unknown marines, sailors, unknown artillery Sea: unknown naval forces	unknown infantry, militia
Casualties and losses
2 killed, 5 wounded	unknown

The Third Battle of Tuxpan was a small but important fight during the Mexican–American War. It happened on June 30, 1847, in a town called Tuxpan, Mexico. This battle was one of three times that fighting took place in Tuxpan during the war.

In this battle, soldiers and sailors from the United States fought against Mexican troops. The American forces were part of a special group called the Mosquito Fleet. They were led by a commander named Matthew C. Perry.

What Was the Mexican-American War?

The Mexican-American War was a big conflict between the United States and Mexico. It lasted from 1846 to 1848. The war was mostly about land, especially the area that is now the southwestern United States.

Many battles were fought on land and at sea. The United States wanted to expand its territory. Mexico wanted to protect its borders and lands.

The Mosquito Fleet

The Mosquito Fleet was a group of smaller ships used by the United States Navy. These ships were perfect for fighting in shallow waters, like rivers or close to the coast. They could get into places where bigger warships could not go.

In the Mexican-American War, the Mosquito Fleet was very important. It helped the U.S. forces control coastal towns and block ports. This made it harder for Mexico to get supplies or move troops.

The Battle in Tuxpan

On June 30, 1847, a group of American sailors and Marines landed in Tuxpan. They were part of the Mosquito Fleet. Their goal was to fight the Mexican forces defending the town.

The fighting was a short but intense skirmish. A skirmish is a small, quick fight between small groups of soldiers. Not many details are known about exactly how the battle unfolded.

Casualties and Outcomes

During the battle, the American side had some losses. One U.S. soldier was killed right away. Another soldier died a few days later from his injuries. Five other American soldiers were wounded.

A strange event happened during the battle: at least four of the wounded Americans were hurt by a gunpowder barrel explosion. No one knows exactly what caused this explosion. The number of Mexican soldiers who were killed or wounded is not known.

After the fight, the United States forces won the battle. They continued their blockade of Tuxpan. A blockade means they surrounded the port to stop ships from entering or leaving. This was a way to control trade and supplies for the town.