Manifest Destiny Quiz

When did westward expansion begin?

• 1845

• 1819

• 1803

• 1872

Answer explanation

Westward expansion began in 1803. This was the year of the Louisiana Purchase, which doubled the size of the United States and opened up new territories for settlement and exploration.

Who coined the phrase 'Manifest Destiny'?

• John O'Sullivan

• John Louis

• James K. Polk

• John Gast

Answer explanation

The phrase 'Manifest Destiny' was coined by John O'Sullivan, making him the correct choice.

What does the term 'Manifest Destiny' mean?

• America's right to expand eastward

• America's right to expand in all directions

• America's right to remain stagnant

• America's right to expand westward

Answer explanation

Manifest Destiny refers to America's right to expand westward.

What does the phrase 'allotted by providence' mean?

• Given by chance

• Given by the people

• Given by God or a higher power

• Given by the government

Answer explanation

The phrase 'allotted by providence' means given by God or a higher power. It implies that something is predetermined or guided by a divine force.

Who is the woman depicted in the painting 'American Progress'?

• America

• John O'Sullivan

• John Gast

• James K. Polk

Answer explanation

The woman depicted in the painting 'American Progress' is America, representing the progress and expansion of the United States. This choice is correct because the painting symbolizes the westward expansion and manifest destiny of America.

What does the painting 'American Progress' symbolize?

• Westward expansion bringing light and development

• Westward expansion bringing darkness and destruction

• Westward expansion bringing equality and justice

• Westward expansion bringing chaos and confusion

Answer explanation

The painting 'American Progress' symbolizes westward expansion bringing light and development.

What were some negative impacts of Manifest Destiny?

• Improving the lives of all Americans

• Establishing homesteads and creating a new life

• Pushing American Indian nations from their homelands

• Promoting equality and justice for all

Answer explanation

Manifest Destiny resulted in the displacement of American Indian nations from their homelands.

Who benefited from westward expansion?

• No one

• All Americans

• Only the government

• Some Americans

Answer explanation

Some Americans benefited from westward expansion as it provided opportunities for land ownership, economic growth, and increased trade.

Who won the presidency with the help of the idea of Manifest Destiny?

• John Louis

• James K. Polk

• John O'Sullivan

• John Gast

Answer explanation

James K. Polk won the presidency with the idea of Manifest Destiny, which promoted westward expansion and territorial acquisition.

Place the territories in order of acquisition from the earliest to the latest

• Annexation of Texas

• Louisiana Purchase

• Acquisition of Florida

• California

• Oregon Territory