Westward Movement

These flashcards cover key concepts and events related to the Westward Movement, focusing on the impact on settlers and Native Americans.

What were some factors that lured settlers westward during the Westward Movement?

The construction of the transcontinental railroad, among other factors.

What incentives did Congress provide to spur the settlement of the West?

Congress loaned hundreds of millions of dollars and granted large pieces of land to railroad companies.

What was the significance of the transcontinental railroad completed in 1869?

It connected the eastern United States with California and facilitated the movement of people and goods.

Who were the two railroad companies involved in building the transcontinental railroad?

Union Pacific and Central Pacific.

What process allowed for faster production of steel during the expansion?

The Bessemer Process.

Who invented the steel plow?

John Deere.

What was the purpose of the windmill used by farmers in the Plains?

To pump water from underground.

What was the role of Barbed Wire in the Westward Movement?

It provided a cheap and efficient way for farmers to fence in their land.

How did the expansion of the railroads impact Native Americans?

It led to violent conflict and loss of their homelands.

What was the effect of settlers killing buffalo on Native Americans?

It took away their main source of food and livelihood.

What was the Dawes Act and its impact on Native Americans?

It attempted to assimilate Native Americans by giving each family 160 acres, but led to poverty as excess land was sold cheaply.

What happened at the Battle of Little Bighorn?

Custer's 7th Cavalry was killed by a much larger force of Native American warriors.

What was the Ghost Dance and who developed it?

A religious ritual developed by Wovoka, believed to bring back the buffalo and restore Native American lands.

What led to the Massacre at Wounded Knee?

Fears of a Native American uprising associated with the Ghost Dance and the subsequent pursuit of Sioux by the U.S. army.