On 9 March 1847, during the Mexican–American War, the United States military made an amphibious landing and besieged the key Mexican seaport of Veracruz.

After the battles of Monterrey and Buena Vista, much of Zachary Taylor's Army of Occupation was transferred to the command of Major General Winfield Scott in support of the upcoming campaign.

[1]: 233  Mexican military intelligence knew in advance of U.S. plans to attack Veracruz,[1]: 204  but internal government turmoil left them powerless to send crucial reinforcements before the American assault commenced.

[1]: 245  One of Patterson's brigades under Gideon Pillow drove off a Mexican cavalry unit at Malibrán, cutting off the Alvarado road and the city's water supply.

[1]: 247  Commodore Matthew C. Perry, Conner's successor, returned from Norfolk, Virginia after making repairs to USS Mississippi, on 20 March.

[1]: 251  General Patterson led a mixed group of volunteers and dragoons to Harney's aid and cleared the force from their positions, chasing them to Medellin.

[1]: 252–253 The obstacle to an advancement to Mexico City was removed and Scott made immediate plans to leave a small garrison at Veracruz and march inland, his first objective being Jalapa.