Final answer:
Considering the historical context, Mexico's efforts to integrate American settlers in Texas failed, leading to cultural and political discord, and ultimately war. The annexation of Texas played a significant role in westward expansion, the debate over slavery, and shaped U.S.-Mexico relations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether Mexico should have sold Texas to the United States is one rooted in historical context and consequence. The tension between Mexico and the Anglo settlers in Texas grew significantly after the Law of 1830, which aimed to limit U.S. immigration and increase military presence in Texas. Anglo settlers in Texas, who were culturally, politically, and economically distinct from the Mexican population and had not integrated well, saw themselves as rightful bearers of American expansionism, including the institution of slavery. Prior to the Mexican-American War, Texas settlers and Mexican authorities were at odds over issues such as religion, language, local governance, and above all, slavery, which was tacitly illegal in Mexico but expanded among Anglo settlers. The Mexican government took several steps to curb the influence of Texans, including outlawing slavery and halting American immigration, but these measures only fueled the settlers' desire for independence or annexation by the United States. Eventually, the annexation of Texas after a period of independence exacerbated tensions and contributed to the Mexican-American War, which resulted in the United States acquiring vast territories from Mexico. The consequences of this decision included reigniting national debates on slavery, stimulating U.S. westward expansion, and leaving long-lasting impacts on U.S.-Mexico relations.