US History 5.1

How did squatters get their land?

Use the notes you completed during the lesson to explain why many American settlers traveled west during this era.

How did the idea of Manifest Destiny and new agricultural equipment encourage western settlement?

Why did many settlers travel west? What was the trip west like for these individuals and groups?

Suppose that you are emigrating from the East to a frontier farm in the West. Write a journal entry describing a day in your journey.

1. Describe the significance of the Preemption Act of 1830 in relation to westward expansion and land ownership.

1. Name one of the most popular routes for westward migration during the 19th century and briefly explain its significance.

1. How long, on average, did a westward journey by wagon train take during the 19th century, and what were some of the challenges faced by travelers along the way?

1. What event led to the Mormon migration westward in 1846, and what route did they follow?

1. Identify at least one Native American group heavily reliant on buffalo for various aspects of their daily lives, and explain the significance of buffalo to their culture.