Westward Expansion and the Oregon Trail

The video explores the westward expansion of the United States, focusing on the Oregon Country. It discusses the impact of Lewis and Clark's expedition, the role of fur traders like John Jacob Astor, and the development of trails by mountain men. The video also covers the territorial disputes between the U.S. and Great Britain, leading to the Oregon Treaty. It highlights the significance of trails in shaping settlements and concludes with a recap of the expansion's impact on American culture and economy.

What were some of the motivations for Americans moving westward to Oregon?

• To find a water route to the Atlantic Ocean

• To escape the cold climate

• To establish new trade routes with Asia

• To seek new opportunities and freedom

What was the primary goal of Lewis and Clark's expedition?

• To map the Rocky Mountains

• To discover gold in California

• To find a water route to the Pacific Ocean

• To establish trade with Native Americans

Who was John Jacob Astor and what was his contribution to westward expansion?

• A scientist who studied the wildlife of the Rockies

• A politician who negotiated the Louisiana Purchase

• A fur trader who established the American Fur Company

• A military leader who fought in the War of 1812

What was the significance of the 49th parallel in the context of the Oregon territory?

• It was the route taken by the Oregon Trail

• It was the line of latitude agreed upon as the border between U.S. and British territories

• It was the boundary between Mexico and the United States

• It marked the southern border of the United States

What was the slogan '54-40 or fight' referring to?

• The demand for the U.S. to control territory up to the 54th parallel

• The number of states in the Union

• The year the Oregon Treaty was signed

• The number of trails leading to Oregon

Which trail was used by the Mormons to escape religious persecution?

• The Mormon Trail

• The Oregon Trail

• The California Trail

• The Santa Fe Trail

What was a common reason for people to travel westward on trails like the Oregon Trail?

• To find new hunting grounds

• To escape the Civil War

• To seek a better life and new opportunities

• To establish new colonies for European countries

Which trail led to the Willamette Valley?

• The Oregon Trail

• The Santa Fe Trail

• The Mormon Trail

• The California Trail

How did President Polk resolve the issue of Oregon's ownership with Great Britain?

• By ignoring the issue entirely

• By negotiating the Oregon Treaty

• By purchasing the land from Great Britain

• By going to war with Great Britain

By 1853, which territories had the United States gained?

• Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico

• Louisiana, Florida, Texas, Oregon, and the Southwest

• New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio

• California, Nevada, and Arizona