APUSH - Period 3 (1754-1800)

How did British interest shape colonial involvement in the French and Indian War? (module 3.2)

- British interest in protecting territory and trade in North America led to colonial involvement in the French and Indian War.

- Britain pushed the American colonies to join the fight against the French, seeing them as a source of troops and resources.

- This supports aligned colonial and British goals but also set the stage for later tensions over war related debts and British taxation.

What were some of the early signs of conflict between Great Britain and British North Americans? (module 3.2)

- Some early signs of conflict between Great Britain and British North Americans included increasing taxation, lack of representation, and restrictions on westward expansion.

- Britain's imposition of laws like the Stamp Act and Quartering house British troops.

- These actions created resentment, as many colonists felt their rights were being ignored, laying the groundwork for future rebellion.

What gains did Great Britain make in the aftermath of the French and Indian War? (module 3.2)

- In the aftermath of the French and Indian War, Great Britain gained extensive territories in North America, including Canada from France and Florida from Spain.

- This victory established Britain as the dominant colonial power on the continent.

- These territorial gains increased Britain's wealth and influence but also led to financial strain, as defending and administering the new lands required substantial resources, eventually leading to increased taxation on American colonies and contributing to colonial unrest.

How did British colonial officials attempt to raise funds in the aftermath of the French and Indian War? (module 3.3)

- Following the French and Indian War, British colonial officials aimed to generate revenue by implementing new taxes on the American colonies, such as the stamp Act and Sugar Act.

- These taxes aimed to cover war debts and the costs of maintaining British troops in North America.

- However, the lack of colonial representation in Parliament led to widespread resistance and resentment among colonists, ultimately fueling tensions that contributed to the American Revolution.

What were the colonists' primary grievances with Great Britain after 1763? (module 3.3)

- The colonists' primary grievances with Great Britain after 1763 centered around unfair taxation and lack of representation.

- Taxes like the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts imposed economic burdens on the colonies without their consent, leading to the rallying cry, "no taxation without representation."

- This upset the colonists, as they believed these taxes violated their rights as Englishmen to have a say ind decisions that affected their lives, ultimately fueling tensions that led to the American revolution.

What factors contributed to rising tensions between Britain and its North American colonies between 1764 and 1770? (module 3.3)

- The rising tensions between Britain and its North American colonies from 1764-1770 were primarily driven by economic restrictions, taxation policies, and lack of colonial representation.

- Acts like the Sugar Act and the Stamp Act placed heavy taxes and goods and legal documents, which burdened colonists economically and sparked outrage.

- Additionally, the colonists felt that they had no voice in Parliament to defend their interests, creating a sense of injustice and resentment that escalated tensions.

What attempts did British officials make to prevent colonial rebellion? (module 3.3)

- British officials attempted to prevent colonial rebellion by enforcing stricter control through laws and deploying more troops in the colonies.

- The passed acts like the Quartering Act, which required colonists to house British soldiers, and the Declaratory Act, asserting Parliament's right to legislate for the colonies.

- These measures aimed to suppress dissent and reinforce British authority, though they ultimately fueled further resentment among the colonists.

Why did these attempts to prevent rebellion fail? (module 3.3)

- The attempts to prevent rebellion failed because they only increased colonial resentment and a sense of oppression.

- Measures like the Quartering Act and the deployment of troops made colonists feel controlled and stripped of their freedoms, while laws asserting Parliament's authority highlighted their lack of representation.

- Instead of quelling unrest, these actions united the colonies in opposition to Britain, laying the groundwork for organized resistance and eventual rebellion.

How did the actions of the Continental Congress represent continuities with traditional British-colonial relations? (module 3.4)

- The actions of the Continental Congress reflected traditional British colonial relations by initially seeking to address grievances through petition and negotiation rather than immediate rebellion.

- The Congress sent the Olive Branch Petition to King George III, hoping for a peaceful resolution and reaffirming loyalty to the Crown while requesting fair treatment.

- This approach showed that the colonies valued dialogue and compromise, consistent with their longstanding relationship with Britain, even as tensions grew.

In what ways did its tactics differ from colonial protests in the 1760s? (module 3.4)

- The Continental Congress's tactics differed from the colonial protests of the 1760s by coordinating a unified, organized approach across all colonies rather than relying on localized protests. - While earlier protests in the 1760s often took the form of spontaneous riots, boycotts, and acts like the Boston Tea Party, the Congress established collective measures such as the Continental Association, which enforced widespread economic boycotts.

- This shift from scattered, reactive protests to structured, united action marked a significant escalation in colonial resistance.

How did the eruption of armed conflict and the publication of Common Sense accelerate the colonial movement toward independence? (module 3.4)

- The eruption of armed conflict, such as the battles at Lexington and Concord, showed that peaceful negotiations with Britain were no longer viable, pushing colonists toward independence.

- Common Sense, written by Thomas Paine, further accelerated this movement by presenting a compelling argument for complete independence from Britain, appealing to a broad audience with clear, persuasive language.

- Together, these events unified colonists around the idea of independence as both necessary and attainable.

How did the Declaration of Independence go beyond merely declaring colonial Independence from Great Britain? (module 3.4)

- The Declaration of Independence went beyond simply declaring independence by articulating a vision of universal rights and the principles of government based on the consent of the governed.

- It outlined grievances against King George III to justify the colonies' actions, showing that Britain had violated the colonists' natural rights.

- By asserting these ideals, the Declaration set a foundation for American identity and inspired future democratic movements globally.

What motivations led different groups of people to ally with each side in the American Revolution? (module 3.4)

- Various groups chose sides in the American Revolution based on economic interests, social status, and political beliefs.

- Wealthy Loyalists, for instance, often allied with Britain to protect their economic ties and social stability, fearing disruption from independence.

- Meanwhile, many enslaved people and Native American groups sided with the British, as Britain promised freedom to enslaved individuals who fought for them and protection for Native lands, while Patriots sought independence for self-governance and the chance for economic freedom.

How did the patriot forces fare in 1776? (Module 3.5)

- In 1776, Patriot forces faced significant challenges, experiencing a mix of defeats and strategic victories.

- Early in the year, they suffered losses in New York, where British forces successfully captured the city, leading to a retreat by George Washington's army.

- However, the year culminated in a crucial victory at the Battle of Trenton on December 26, where Washington's surprise attack on Hessian forces boosted morale and reinvigorated the Patriot cause, demonstrating their resilience and ability to regroup despite earlier setbacks.

How and why did the tide of war turn in 1777? (Module 3.5)

- The tide of war turned in 1777 primarily due to the American victory at the Battle of Saratoga, which is often considered a turning point in the Revolutionary War.

- This significant win not only boosted American morale but also convinced France of the viability of the Patriot cause, leading to a formal alliance and military support for the Americans.

- The British strategy of attempting to cut off New England from the other colonies failed, and the loss at Saratoga diminished British confidence while galvanizing support for the revolution among both the colonists and foreign allies.

How did the American Revolution affect the status of women in the colonies? (Module 3.5)

- The American Revolution significantly affected the status of women in the colonies by challenging traditional gender roles and expanding their opportunities.

- While women did not gain formal rights or suffrage immediately, they took on new responsibilities during the war, managing farms and businesses while men were away, which increased their visibility and value in society.

- Additionally, the revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality inspired some women to advocate for greater rights, laying the groundwork for future movements toward women's rights and education.

In what ways did the American Revolution become an international conflict by 1780? (Module 3.5)

- By 1780, the American Revolution had evolved into an international conflict through the involvement of multiple foreign powers.

- France formally allied with the American colonies in 1778, providing military support, naval assistance, and funding, which significantly bolstered the Patriot cause.

- Additionally, Spain and the Netherlands entered the conflict against Britain, viewing it as an opportunity to challenge British dominance and expand their own interests, further globalizing the struggle and making it a pivotal event in the larger context of international power dynamics.

What major factors allowed the Americans to win the American Revolution? (Module 3.5)

- Several major factors contributed to the American victory in the Revolutionary War.

- First, the Americans benefited from strong leadership, particularly from figures like George Washington, who effectively unified and inspired the Continental Army. Second, foreign assistance, especially from France, provided crucial military support, resources, and naval power that were vital in key battles.

- Finally, the Americans' home-field advantage allowed them to leverage their knowledge of the terrain, support from local populations, and a deep-seated commitment to their cause, making it difficult for British forces to maintain control and suppress the rebellion.

What challenges did veterans face after the American revolution? (Module 3.6)

- After the American Revolution, veterans faced numerous challenges, including economic hardships and inadequate support from the government.

- Many veterans returned home to find their livelihoods disrupted, with farms and businesses in disrepair, making it difficult to reintegrate into civilian life. Additionally, there were often delays in receiving promised pensions and land grants, leading to financial instability and frustration.

- Socially, some veterans struggled with physical and psychological injuries from the war, while others encountered a lack of recognition for their sacrifices, contributing to a sense of disillusionment and marginalization.

To what extent did the American Revolution provide new opportunities for women? (Module 3.6)

- The American Revolution provided new opportunities for women to a significant extent, although these changes were often limited and gradual.

- During the war, many women took on roles traditionally held by men, managing farms and businesses, which expanded their responsibilities and visibility in society. The revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality also inspired some women to advocate for their rights, leading to early discussions about women's education and suffrage.

- However, despite these advancements, full political rights and social equality remained largely unachieved, leaving many women to continue their fight for recognition in the years following the revolution.

How did the American Revolution affect Black Americans? (Module 3.6)

- The American Revolution had a profound yet complex impact on Black Americans.

- Many enslaved individuals seized the opportunity to escape or fight for their freedom, with both the British and American forces promising emancipation, leading to a gradual but uneven path toward liberation.

- Although the ideals of liberty and equality inspired some movements for abolition and civil rights, systemic racism persisted, and most Black Americans continued to face discrimination and oppression in the post-revolutionary society.

What similarities did the new state governments share between 1776 and 1786? (Module 3.7)

- Between 1776 and 1786, new state governments shared several similarities, particularly in their emphasis on republican principles and the protection of individual rights.

- Most states adopted constitutions that included a separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent tyranny.

- Additionally, many state governments incorporated bills of rights that guaranteed fundamental liberties, reflecting a common commitment to the ideals of democracy and a response to the perceived abuses of British rule.

What accounted for the differences among these governments? (Module 3.7)

- The differences among governments can largely be attributed to historical contexts, cultural values, and economic conditions unique to each nation.

- democratic governments often arise in societies that value individual rights and have a strong middle class, while authoritarian regimes may emerge in states with a history of centralized power and limited civil liberties.

- Consequently, these varying foundations influence how policies are created, enforced, and perceived by citizens, ultimately shaping the political landscape of each nation.

How did the Articles of Confederation government's policies on western expansion compare to those of the British crown before the American Revolution? (Module 3.7)

- The Articles of Confederation adopted a more permissive approach to western expansion compared to the restrictive policies of the British Crown before the American Revolution.

- Under British rule, the Proclamation of 1763 limited colonial expansion westward to avoid conflicts with Native American tribes, whereas the Articles of Confederation facilitated the process of settling western lands by allowing states to claim and govern these territories.

- This shift reflected a desire for growth and autonomy among the newly independent states, contrasting with the previous constraints imposed by British colonial policy.

What financial challenges did the new national government face during and immediately after the American Revolution? (Module 3.7)

- During and immediately after the American Revolution, the new national government faced significant financial challenges, including the inability to levy taxes, high war debts, and a lack of a stable currency.

- The Continental Congress had borrowed extensively to finance the war, leading to a mounting debt that was difficult to repay without the power to tax.

- Additionally, the reliance on paper currency led to rampant inflation, undermining public confidence in the government's financial stability and complicating efforts to fund ongoing operations and support the war's veterans.

What dilemmas did the Northwest Ordinances seek to resolve? (Module 3.7)

- The Northwest Ordinances sought to resolve several key dilemmas related to western expansion, governance, and the rights of settlers.

- First, they aimed to establish a clear process for the orderly settlement of the Northwest Territory, ensuring that new states could be admitted to the Union on an equal footing with existing states. Additionally, the ordinances addressed concerns over the treatment of Native American lands by promoting fair dealings and prohibiting slavery in the new territories, which reflected emerging values around freedom and human rights while attempting to balance the interests of various stakeholders.

- Overall, these measures aimed to create a stable framework for expansion that would foster economic growth and prevent conflict in the region.

How did the Northwest Ordinances represent a continuation of pre-American Revolution policy, and how did they represent a change? (Module 3.7)

- The Northwest Ordinances represented a continuation of pre-American Revolution policy by maintaining the practice of orderly land distribution and settlement, similar to British colonial policies that governed land acquisition and management.

- However, they marked a significant change by establishing a system that prioritized the rights of settlers and promoted democratic governance through the creation of new states, reflecting the values of the newly independent nation.

- Additionally, the ordinances included provisions against slavery, indicating a shift towards a more equitable approach to land use and governance compared to the earlier colonial practices.

What economic struggles did farmers face in the aftermath of the American Revolution? (Module 3.7)

- In the aftermath of the American Revolution, farmers faced several economic struggles, including high levels of debt, inflation, and the loss of traditional markets.

- Many farmers had borrowed money to finance their wartime efforts, but the post-war economy suffered from inflation, making it difficult for them to repay loans.

- Additionally, the disruption of trade and the loss of access to British markets diminished agricultural profits, leading to widespread financial distress and even the threat of foreclosure for many farmers.

How did political leaders contribute to these struggles? (Module 3.7)

- Political leaders contributed to the economic struggles of farmers after the American Revolution through inadequate governmental response to economic instability and the prioritization of elite interests.

- The national government, under the Articles of Confederation, lacked the power to impose taxes or regulate commerce, which hindered efforts to stabilize the economy and provide relief for indebted farmers.

- Additionally, some political leaders favored policies that protected creditors over debtors, such as enforcing high taxes and ignoring calls for debt relief, further exacerbating the financial difficulties faced by farmers and leading to unrest, such as Shays' Rebellion.

How did the various proposals at the Constitutional Convention reflect regional interests? (Module 3.8-9)

- The various proposals at the Constitutional Convention reflected regional interests through debates over representation, slavery, and economic policies.

- For instance, the Virginia Plan advocated for representation based on population, favoring larger states, while the New Jersey Plan called for equal representation, benefiting smaller states. - Additionally, issues surrounding slavery highlighted regional divisions; southern states sought to protect the institution to maintain their agricultural economy, whereas northern states aimed to limit its expansion, resulting in compromises like the Three-Fifths Compromise that shaped the framework of the new government to accommodate diverse regional concerns.

Why were the Federalists able to win ratification of the Constitution? (Module 3.8-9)

- The Federalists were able to win ratification of the Constitution by effectively addressing concerns about the new government through a well-organized campaign that emphasized the need for a stronger central authority to maintain order and stability.

- They utilized the Federalist Papers to articulate their arguments and dispel fears regarding potential tyranny, arguing that a system of checks and balances would protect individual liberties.

- Additionally, key endorsements from influential figures such as George Washington and strategic compromises, like the promise to add a Bill of Rights, helped sway public opinion and garner support for ratification in key states.

How did Washington's administration reflect federalist goals and principles? (Module 3.10)

- Washington's administration reflected Federalist goals and principles through the establishment of a strong central government, the implementation of a financial system to stabilize the economy, and the assertion of federal authority over state matters.

- His appointment of Alexander Hamilton as Secretary of the Treasury led to the creation of a national bank and the implementation of tariffs, which aimed to promote economic growth and federal financial stability.

- Furthermore, Washington's handling of events like the Whiskey Rebellion demonstrated the Federalist commitment to maintaining order and enforcing federal laws, reinforcing the idea that the national government had the authority to regulate and tax its citizens.

In what ways did the Bill of Rights achieve the goals of the Antiferderalists? (Module 3.10)

- The Bill of Rights achieved the goals of the Antifederalists by explicitly protecting individual liberties and limiting the powers of the federal government.

- Antifederalists were concerned that the original Constitution did not adequately safeguard personal freedoms, so the inclusion of the first ten amendments addressed issues such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to bear arms.

- Additionally, the Bill of Rights emphasized the importance of states' rights and the principle that powers not delegated to the federal government were reserved for the states and the people, which aligned with the Antifederalists' desire to prevent potential government overreach.

How did Hamilton's policies stabilize the national economy? (Module 3.10)

- Hamilton's policies stabilized the national economy through the establishment of a solid financial foundation that included the creation of a national bank, the assumption of state debts, and the implementation of a federal tax system.

- The establishment of the First Bank of the United States provided a centralized institution to manage government funds, issue currency, and facilitate commerce, which promoted economic growth and confidence in the financial system.

- By assuming state debts, Hamilton not only relieved individual states of financial burdens but also created a sense of national unity and creditworthiness, which helped attract both domestic and foreign investment and laid the groundwork for a stable economic environment.

Why did these policies draw political opposition? (Module 3.10)

- Hamilton's policies drew political opposition for several reasons, primarily due to concerns over centralization of power and differing economic philosophies.

- Critics, particularly from the agrarian South, viewed the establishment of a national bank and the assumption of state debts as favoring wealthy elites and northern industrial interests at the expense of southern farmers and smaller states.

- Additionally, many feared that these policies would lead to an overreach of federal authority, undermining the principles of limited government and states' rights that were central to the Antifederalist perspective, leading to significant political divisions and the emergence of rival political parties.

How did Washington's foreign policies cause political debates in the United States? (Module 3.10)

- Washington's foreign policies caused political debates in the United States primarily through his stance on neutrality and relationships with foreign powers, particularly during the conflicts between Britain and France.

- His Proclamation of Neutrality in 1793, which aimed to keep the United States out of European wars, sparked significant contention, especially among those who supported closer ties with France, viewing the revolution there as an extension of American ideals.

- This division led to the formation of political factions, with Federalists generally favoring Britain for trade and stability, while Democratic-Republicans advocated for support of France, highlighting the growing ideological rifts in American politics and shaping future foreign policy debates.

How did the Constitution allow the federal government to respond differently to the Whiskey Rebellion than it did to Shay's Rebellion under the Articles of Confederation? (Module 3.10)

- The Constitution allowed the federal government to respond differently to the Whiskey Rebellion than it did to Shays' Rebellion by granting the federal government the authority to maintain a standing army and enforce laws more effectively.

- Under the Articles of Confederation, the government lacked the power to raise a national army or directly intervene in state affairs, which hindered its ability to respond to Shays' Rebellion and maintain order.

- In contrast, when faced with the Whiskey Rebellion, President Washington utilized federal troops to suppress the uprising, demonstrating the stronger executive authority and the federal government's capability to enforce laws and maintain domestic peace established by the new Constitution.

How did the Adams administration justify the Alien and Sedition Acts? (Module 3.10)

- The Adams administration justified the Alien and Sedition Acts by arguing that they were necessary for national security and the preservation of public order amid rising tensions with France and domestic dissent.

- The administration claimed that the Alien Act was needed to protect the country from potential threats posed by foreign nationals, especially those who were deemed dangerous or disloyal during a time of conflict.

- Similarly, the Sedition Act was defended as a means to prevent misinformation and treasonous speech that could undermine the government, asserting that limiting criticism of the government was essential to maintaining stability and protecting the nation from internal subversion.

How did the Democratic-Republicans challenge this justification? (Module 3.10)

- The Democratic-Republicans challenged the justification of the Alien and Sedition Acts by arguing that these laws violated the First Amendment rights of free speech and freedom of the press. - They contended that the Sedition Act was a politically motivated attempt to silence opposition and stifle dissent, particularly against the Adams administration and its policies.

- Additionally, they viewed the Alien Act as an overreach of federal power that unjustly targeted immigrants and those who opposed the government, asserting that these acts undermined the principles of liberty and democracy upon which the nation was founded.

What main issues divided the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans? (Module 3.10)

- The main issues that divided the Federalists and the Democratic-Republicans included the role and power of the federal government, economic policies, and foreign relations.

- Federalists, led by figures like Alexander Hamilton, advocated for a strong central government and supported policies such as the national bank and tariffs to promote industry and commerce. In contrast, Democratic-Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, favored states' rights, a more agrarian economy, and a limited federal government, opposing measures they saw as favoring the wealthy elite and infringing on individual liberties.

- Additionally, foreign policy differences, particularly regarding relations with Britain and France, further fueled the ideological divide between the two parties.

What do the Aline and Sedition Acts and the election of 1800 reveal about the political partisanship in America during the late 1700s? (Module 3.10)

- The Alien and Sedition Acts and the election of 1800 reveal significant political partisanship in America during the late 1700s, highlighting the intense ideological divide between the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans.

- The enactment of the Alien and Sedition Acts demonstrated how the Federalists sought to consolidate power and suppress dissent from their political opponents, reflecting fears of instability and foreign influence amid growing tensions.

- Conversely, the election of 1800 marked a pivotal moment in American politics, as it resulted in a peaceful transfer of power from the Federalists to the Democratic-Republicans, showcasing the deep-rooted political divisions and the emergence of party loyalty as a defining feature of the political landscape, ultimately setting the stage for the evolution of the two-party system.

How did changes in education during the late 1700s reflect the ideas and principles of the American Revolution? (Module 3.11)

- Changes in education during the late 1700s reflected the ideas and principles of the American Revolution by promoting concepts such as democracy, individualism, and civic responsibility.

- The expansion of public education and the establishment of schools aimed to create informed citizens who could participate actively in a democratic society, aligning with the revolutionary ideals of self-governance and equality.

- Additionally, educational reforms emphasized critical thinking and the study of republican principles, as seen in the inclusion of curricula that focused on American history, government, and moral education, which sought to instill values that supported the new nation's democratic framework and fostered a sense of national identity.

Describe white Americans' attitudes toward American Indians and Black American cultures during the late 18th century. (Module 3.11)

- During the late 18th century, white Americans generally held complex and often negative attitudes toward American Indian and Black American cultures, shaped by a combination of economic interests, racial prejudices, and cultural misconceptions.

- Many white settlers viewed American Indians as obstacles to westward expansion, often perceiving them as uncivilized or inferior, which justified policies of displacement and assimilation as the U.S. government sought to acquire their lands. Similarly, Black Americans were primarily seen through the lens of slavery.

- many white Americans regarded them as property rather than individuals, leading to widespread discrimination and the belief in the superiority of white culture, which justified the institution of slavery and restricted the rights and freedoms of Black individuals.

What roles did different groups of people have constructing the new nation's capital city? (Module 3.11)

- The construction of the new nation's capital city, Washington, D.C., involved various groups of people, each contributing in different ways.

- Enslaved African Americans played a significant role in the labor force, providing the manual labor needed for building infrastructure, while their contributions were often unrecognized and uncompensated. Additionally, free Black laborers, immigrants, and skilled artisans contributed to the construction and design of public buildings, with architects like Pierre L'Enfant and Benjamin Banneker, a free Black surveyor and mathematician, playing key roles in the planning and layout of the city.

- Together, these diverse groups shaped the physical and cultural landscape of the capital, reflecting the complexities of American society during its formative years.

What led to armed conflicts between the US government and American Indians in the 1780-90s? (Module 3.12)

- Armed conflicts between the U.S. government and American Indians in the 1780s and 1790s were primarily driven by westward expansion, land disputes, and broken treaties.

- As settlers pushed into the Northwest Territory, they encroached on lands that Native American tribes had traditionally inhabited, leading to escalating tensions and violent confrontations.

- The U.S. government's failure to honor treaties that guaranteed Native American land rights further fueled resentment and resistance among tribes, culminating in significant conflicts such as the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794, where U.S. forces, led by General Anthony Wayne, defeated a confederation of Native American tribes, paving the way for increased settlement and the eventual signing of the Treaty of Greenville, which ceded large portions of tribal land to the U.S. government.

What resulted from those conflicts? (Module 3.12)

- The conflicts between the U.S. government and American Indians in the 1780s and 1790s resulted in significant territorial losses for Native American tribes and the establishment of U.S. dominance in the Northwest Territory.

- The Treaty of Greenville in 1795 formalized these territorial cessions, forcing many tribes to relinquish vast areas of their land in exchange for limited compensation and recognition of their remaining territories.

- Additionally, these conflicts led to the further marginalization and displacement of Native American communities, a pattern of broken treaties, and ongoing resistance, setting the stage for future confrontations as the United States continued its expansion westward.

Why did Americans move to cities and to the West in the late 1700s? (Module 3.12)

- Americans moved to cities and to the West in the late 1700s for several reasons, including economic opportunities, the search for land, and the promise of a better life.

- Urbanization was driven by the growth of trade, manufacturing, and commerce, as cities became centers for economic activity and offered jobs and services that attracted many, particularly from rural areas.

- Simultaneously, westward migration was fueled by the desire for land and resources, as settlers sought fertile soil for agriculture and new opportunities for wealth, often spurred by the ideal of Manifest Destiny and the belief in the nation's expansion as a form of progress and opportunity.