1846 BRAIDED HAIR 1/2C MS66+

In 1846, a year that significantly shaped the geopolitical and scientific landscape of the 19th century,\. The Mexican-American War erupted, stemming from the United States' annexation of Texas and disputes over territorial boundaries. This conflict, emblematic of the era's expansionist fervor, concluded with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, compelling Mexico to cede vast territories to the U.S., including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and Texas. This territorial acquisition marked a dramatic expansion of the United States, fueling its Manifest Destiny ideology. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts in the Pacific Northwest culminated in the Oregon Treaty between the United Kingdom and the United States, establishing the 49th parallel as the international boundary and underscoring the nations' desires for peaceful coexistence and mutual access to the rich resources of the region. 1846 also witnessed a monumental leap in the realm of astronomy with the discovery of Neptune, a testament to the power of mathematical prediction and observational precision, enhancing humanity's understanding of the solar system. Back on Earth, the founding of the Smithsonian Institution epitomized the era's commitment to the advancement of knowledge, establishing an enduring legacy of education and research in the United States. Amidst these events of national expansion and scientific progress, the ill-fated journey of the Donner Party unfolded, a harrowing tale of struggle and survival in the American West that underscored the perilous nature of the country's westward expansion. Together, these events from 1846 encapsulate a year of ambitious exploration, territorial conflict, and profound scientific discovery, each leaving an indelible mark on the course of history."