Westward Expansion in the United States

What combination of factors changed the way Americans thought of the West in the 1840s?

• Economic opportunity and ideological encouragement

• Political instability and religious conflicts

• Environmental challenges and technological advancements

• Social inequality and cultural diversity

Why did most Americans who went west need some financial security at the outset of their journey?

• Government aid was only available to those with financial security

• The truly poor were not allowed to make the trip

• The cost of moving an entire family westward was expensive

• The risks and chances of success were questionable

What phrase did John O'Sullivan coin to describe the American belief in westward expansion?

• Manifest Destiny

• Divine Ordinance

• Democratic Expansion

• Civilizing Mission

What did Manifest Destiny justify in Americans' minds?

• Their right to govern any other groups encountered during expansion

• Their duty to protect the environment and preserve natural resources

• Their obligation to promote cultural diversity and inclusivity

• Their responsibility to establish diplomatic relations with other nations

What was the reality of the frontier during westward expansion?

• Relatively empty and waiting for settlers to exploit resources

• Already populated by diverse communities from various backgrounds

• Inhabited solely by Native American tribes

• Controlled by European powers seeking territorial expansion

Who were the native inhabitants that Americans believed would benefit from their expansion?

• Hispanic communities in the Southwest

• European settlers from Western Europe

• American Indians in the West

• African American slaves seeking freedom

What did American expansion necessitate?

• A simple and straightforward exchange of resources

• A complex and involved exchange with existing communities

• A complete eradication of native cultures and traditions

• A peaceful coexistence with neighboring nations

Who promoted the idea that the United States was destined to rule the continent?

• Politicians and writers throughout the 1800s

• Native American tribes resisting colonization

• European powers seeking territorial expansion

• Religious leaders advocating for peace and harmony