Westward Expansion & Manifest Destiny (1800–1850)

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the Westward Expansion and Manifest Destiny era in U.S. history from 1800 to 1850.

Louisiana Purchase

This 1803 acquisition from France doubled the size of the U.S.

Lewis & Clark Expedition

Led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark (1804–1806) to explore the western territories after the Louisiana Purchase.

Adams-Onís Treaty

The 1819 agreement that resulted in the U.S. gaining Florida and establishing boundaries with Spanish Mexico.

Missouri Compromise

A 1820 agreement that admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state while prohibiting slavery above the 36°30' line.

Texas Revolution

A conflict from 1835 to 1836 where Texas colonists rebelled against Mexican rule, leading to Texas independence.

Mexican-American War

A conflict from 1846 to 1848 driven by Manifest Destiny and territorial disputes, resulting in the U.S. gaining significant lands.

Wilmot Proviso

An 1846 proposal to ban slavery in territories acquired from Mexico; it failed but increased sectional tensions.

Filibusters

Individuals like James Long who illegally attempted to seize land, including Texas, from foreign powers.

Manifest Destiny

The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and destiny of the U.S. to expand its territory across North America.

Sacagawea

The Native American woman who served as an interpreter for Lewis & Clark, symbolizing peaceful intentions.