How did the US government respond to California's declaration of independence from Mexico in 1846?

• A. The US government recognized California as an independent nation.
• B. The US government sent military forces to occupy California and later annexed it.
• C. The US government imposed economic sanctions on California.
• D. The US government remained neutral and did not intervene.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the historical context: In 1846, during the Mexican-American War, California declared independence from Mexico, forming the short-lived California Republic.
2. Understand the US government's position: The US was engaged in conflict with Mexico and had interests in expanding its territory westward.
3. Analyze the US government's response: Instead of recognizing California as an independent nation or remaining neutral, the US took active military action.
4. Recall that the US sent military forces to occupy California, which helped secure the territory during the war.
5. Recognize that after military occupation, the US formally annexed California, incorporating it as part of the United States.