Quiz: Westward Expansion

What was Manifest Destiny?

• A law passed by Congress in 1850

• A treaty with Native American tribes

• A railroad system connecting the East and West coasts

• The belief that the United States should expand across North America

Answer explanation

Manifest Destiny was the belief that the United States should expand across North America, reflecting a sense of mission and entitlement to spread democracy and civilization.

Who coined the phrase "Manifest Destiny"?

• Thomas Jefferson

• John O'Sullivan

• James K. Polk

• Andrew Jackson

Answer explanation

The phrase "Manifest Destiny" was coined by journalist John O'Sullivan in 1845. He used it to express the belief that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

What did the painting "American Progress" represent?

• The idea of it was America's fate to expand west

• The struggles of American Indians

• The battle between settlers and indigenous people

• The signing of a peace treaty

Answer explanation

The painting "American Progress" symbolizes the belief in Manifest Destiny, illustrating the idea that it was America's fate to expand westward, bringing civilization and progress to the frontier.

What was one positive outcome of Manifest Destiny for America?

• The United States remained confined to the east coast

• The United States expanded from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean

• Mexico gained control of Texas

• Britain gained control of the Oregon Territory

Answer explanation

One positive outcome of Manifest Destiny was the expansion of the United States from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, significantly increasing its territory and influence across North America.

How did Manifest Destiny affect Native American tribes?

• It led to peaceful cooperation between settlers and tribes

• Increased cooperation with neighboring countries

• It resulted in forced relocation and loss of tribal lands

• It created new trade opportunities for tribes

Answer explanation

Manifest Destiny led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes, resulting in significant loss of their lands and disruption of their cultures, as settlers expanded westward.

In which modern-day state did the Oregon Trail begin?

• Kansas

• Missouri

• Iowa

• Nebraska

Answer explanation

The Oregon Trail began in Missouri, specifically at Independence, which served as a key starting point for many pioneers heading westward during the 19th century.

What was the main purpose of the Oregon Trail?

• To transport gold miners to California

• To establish trade routes with Native Americans

• To help pioneers settle in the Pacific Northwest

• To create military outposts

Answer explanation

The main purpose of the Oregon Trail was to help pioneers settle in the Pacific Northwest, facilitating their migration and establishing communities in that region, rather than transporting gold miners or creating military outposts.

Which of these was NOT a common danger on the Oregon Trail?

• Disease

• River crossings

• Harsh weather

• Alligator attacks

Answer explanation

Alligator attacks were not a common danger on the Oregon Trail, as the trail primarily traversed areas far from alligator habitats. In contrast, disease, river crossings, and harsh weather were significant threats faced by travelers.

What type of transportation did most pioneers use on the Oregon Trail?

• Horse-drawn carriages

• Steam locomotives

• Covered wagons

• Stagecoaches

Answer explanation

Most pioneers used covered wagons on the Oregon Trail because they provided shelter and could carry supplies. Horse-drawn carriages and stagecoaches were less common, and steam locomotives were not available for this journey.

At which famous battle did Davy Crockett meet his end?

• Battle of San Antonio

• Battle of Gonzales

• Battle of New Orleans

• Battle of the Alamo

Answer explanation

Davy Crockett met his end at the Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal event in the Texas Revolution, where he fought alongside other defenders against Mexican forces in 1836.