Westward Expansion

Question 1

What was the idea of Manifest Destiny?

Answer 1

A belief that the United States had the God-given right and destiny to expand its dominion across the entire North American continent.

Question 2

Where did settlers head to when first moving west and why?

Answer 2

Early settlers focused on areas like Oregon and California, driven by the promise of land, economic opportunities, and religious freedom, often following trails like the Oregon Trail.

Question 3

What were the territories acquired and when were they added?

Answer 3

Treaty of Paris: 1763, Louisiana Purchase: 1803, Florida: 1819, Texas: 1845, Oregon: 1846, Mexican Cession ( California, Nevada, Utah, most of Arizona, and parts of New Mexico, Colorado, and Wyoming): 1848, Gadsden Purchase: 1853

Question 4

Why was the Gadsden Purchase key to the U.S.?

Answer 4

The Gadsden Purchase secured land for a south transcontinental railroad route.

Question 5

Which president was associated with Manifest Destiny?

Answer 5

James K. Polk