US Expansion and Manifest Destiny

The video discusses the Mexican-American War, highlighting its unpopularity in the US. It covers Mexico's independence, the settlement of American settlers in Texas, and the Texas Revolution. The US Congress initially rejected Texas's annexation due to political concerns. President James K. Polk, a proponent of manifest destiny, eventually annexed Texas, leading to tensions with Mexico. Polk's actions, including sending troops and attempting to purchase California, angered Mexico, resulting in war. The video also presents the Mexican perspective and criticism from US congressmen, emphasizing the controversial nature of the war.

Which war is described as being unpopular among the American public?

• The Revolutionary War

• The Mexican-American War

• The Civil War

• The War of 1812

In what year did Mexico gain independence from Spain?

• 1821

• 1812

• 1836

• 1845

What was one condition the Mexican government placed on American settlers in Texas?

• They must serve in the Mexican army

• They must speak Spanish

• They must pledge loyalty to Mexico

• They must pay higher taxes

Why did the US Congress initially reject Texas' application to join the United States?

• They feared a war with Spain

• They did not want to add another slave state

• They wanted to focus on the East Coast

• They thought Texas was too small

Who was the US President that supported the idea of manifest destiny?

• Abraham Lincoln

• Thomas Jefferson

• James K. Polk

• Andrew Jackson

What was President Polk's ultimate territorial goal?

• To annex Canada

• To conquer land from the Atlantic to the Pacific

• To expand into South America

• To establish colonies in Asia

What event did Polk use to justify declaring war on Mexico?

• The Battle of San Jacinto

• The Alamo

• The annexation of California

• Mexican soldiers firing on American troops

How did Mexicans view the American declaration of war?

• As a defensive measure

• As a justified act

• As a diplomatic error

• As an act of banditry

Which US Senator declared the war unjustifiable?

• John C. Calhoun

• Henry Clay

• Daniel Webster

• Charles Sumner

What was one of the main reasons the US wanted to expand westward?

• To find gold

• To escape European influence

• To spread American freedom

• To establish trade routes