What was the basis for establishing the Texas - New Mexico Boundary?

The Texas - New Mexico boundary was primarily established through a survey conducted by John H. Clark in 1859. This survey was instrumental in determining the precise boundary between the two states following their respective claims and the implications of prior treaties and legislation.

While treaties like the Guadalupe Hidalgo Treaty in 1848 and assertions of legislative authority played roles in defining territorial limits, it was the survey that provided an actual physical delineation on the ground. The 1859 survey aimed to create a clear and legal understanding of the boundary, striving to resolve disputes that had arisen from previous claims and definitions.

The notion of historical claims by Texas also influenced perceptions of the boundary, but the official determination was concretized through the survey efforts. Thus, John H. Clark’s survey is recognized as the definitive action that solidified the boundary between Texas and New Mexico.