It began as a border dispute, but soon escalated into a 16-month conflict that transformed a continent. Tells the exciting and dramatic story of a war that cost Mexico nearly half its territory. Studies both sides of the conflict, presents a historical panorama filled with unforgettable characters like Mexican President Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, General Zachary Taylor, and Winfield Scott. Relive their grand ideas and the passion of a conflict that changed the shape of nations and left a legacy that endures to this day.

Title from container. Originally broadcast on PBS television in 1998. DVD release of the 1998 documentary series aired on PBS. Originally broadcast by PBS on September 13 and 14, 1998.

Disc one, Part I:Introduction -- Neighbors and strangers -- Wound -- Hardest working man in the United States -- Terrible word -- Rough and ready -- "Hostilities have commenced" -- Declaration of war -- Volunteers (55 min.); Part II: Introduction -- War for the borderlands -- Native lands -- Other shore -- "They die like dogs" -- Monterrey -- Credits (55 min.).