During which years did the Mexican-American War take place?

The Mexican-American War occurred between 1846 and 1848, making the correct answer the years 1846-1848. This conflict arose primarily from the annexation of Texas by the United States and the desire of the U.S. to acquire additional territories, including California and New Mexico. The war was characterized by several significant battles and resulted in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, through which the United States gained vast territories that would eventually become California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado and New Mexico.

The other options fall outside of this timeline; for instance, 1844-1846 precedes the war, while 1850-1854 and 1852-1854 occur well after the conflict had ended. Understanding the context of the Mexican-American War, including its causes and consequences, is crucial for grasping the broader themes of territorial expansion and the impacts of the war on U.S. history.