Manifest Destiny and Westward Migration

The video explores why migrants moved west between 1839 and 1860, focusing on three main reasons: economic collapse in 1837, beliefs and values like Manifest Destiny, and opportunities such as rich farming land. The economic collapse led to job losses and high living costs, prompting migration. Manifest Destiny, a belief in expanding American culture, also motivated movement. Lastly, opportunities for farming and government acts like the Pre-emption Act encouraged settlers to move west.

What was one of the main reasons for the economic hardship in the eastern United States during the late 1830s?

• The collapse of banks in the east

• The rise of industrialization

• The discovery of gold in the west

• The introduction of new farming techniques

How did the economic collapse affect employment in the east?

• It caused a rise in wages

• It led to an increase in job opportunities

• It had no impact on employment

• It resulted in widespread job losses

What was the concept of Manifest Destiny primarily associated with?

• Religious and cultural beliefs

• Technological advancements

• Economic prosperity

• Political alliances

What was one of the motivations behind the idea of Manifest Destiny?

• To establish trade routes with Europe

• To convert Native Americans to Christianity

• To discover new mineral resources

• To build new industrial cities

How did some people misuse the concept of Manifest Destiny?

• By promoting peace with Native Americans

• By fostering international diplomacy

• By using it as an excuse to acquire land

• By encouraging technological innovation

What was a significant opportunity that attracted migrants to the west?

• The presence of large urban centers

• The availability of rich farming land

• The discovery of ancient ruins

• The development of new transportation systems

How did the Pre-emption Act of 1841 encourage westward migration?

• By establishing new trade routes

• By providing financial aid to migrants

• By allowing farmers to claim land first

• By offering free land to all settlers

What role did the government play in promoting migration to the west?

• It imposed taxes on new settlers

• It encouraged migration through acts and publicity

• It provided military protection for settlers

• It discouraged migration to maintain population balance

Why was rich farming land important to migrants?

• It allowed them to build large cities

• It provided opportunities for trade and self-sufficiency

• It was a source of precious metals

• It offered a mild climate

What was one of the fears that the Pre-emption Act aimed to address?

• The fear of Native American attacks

• The fear of land speculation by wealthy individuals

• The fear of natural disasters

• The fear of economic collapse