(Aug. 1920, 1847) Decisive engagement between U.S. and Mexican troops in the Mexican War .
On its march to Mexico City, the U.S. force under Winfield Scott was blocked by a Mexican force and detoured via a difficult road across lava beds held by another Mexican force. After an engagement that lasted less than 20 minutes, Scott's troops gained control of several roads to Mexico City. They then captured the main Mexican army of Antonio Santa Anna at Churubusco.