Westward Expansion and Its Impact

The lecture discusses the westward expansion after the Civil War, highlighting the diverse population of the Old West, the dangers settlers faced, and the motivations for moving west, such as access to cheap land and economic opportunities in mining and ranching. The role of railroads in facilitating settlement and the diverse groups, including immigrants and cowboys, who contributed to the development of the region are also covered.

What was a common misconception about the ethnic makeup of the Old West?

• It was largely white American.

• It was predominantly Native American.

• It was mostly African-American.

• It was mainly Hispanic.

What was the primary reason people moved westward during the 19th century?

• To escape the Civil War.

• To find cheap, available agricultural land.

• To explore new territories.

• To join the gold rush.

What was the Homestead Act's requirement for settlers to gain land ownership?

• Pay a small fee.

• Plant a certain number of crops.

• Stay on the land for five years.

• Build a school on the land.

Which industry attracted many settlers to the West aside from farming?

• Textile industry

• Technology industry

• Fishing industry

• Mining industry

How did railroads contribute to westward expansion?

• By offering jobs in the railroad industry.

• By providing free land to settlers.

• By reducing the cost of living in the West.

• By making travel faster and safer.

What percentage of cowboys were African-American during the period?

• 10%

• 75%

• 25%

• 50%

Which group of immigrants significantly contributed to building the transcontinental railroad?

• German immigrants

• Chinese immigrants

• Mexican immigrants

• Italian immigrants

Which European countries did many settlers in the Midwest come from?

• Italy and Greece

• Scandinavia and Germany

• Portugal and Netherlands

• France and Spain

What was a significant challenge faced by Hispanic residents in the Southwest during westward expansion?

• Loss of land due to American settlers

• Lack of water resources

• Frequent natural disasters

• Inability to farm the land

What was a common consequence for Native Americans during westward expansion?

• Improved living conditions

• Loss of land and resources

• Increased trade opportunities

• Gaining new territories