Chapter 17: Manifest Destiny and Its Legacy, 1841-1848

Manifest Destiny

The belief that the U.S. was destined to expand across the North American continent.

Westward Expansion

The movement of settlers to the American West, driven by economic opportunities and the desire for land.

Mexican-American War

A conflict between the United States and Mexico from 1846 to 1848, resulting in the U.S. acquisition of vast territories.

The Mexican Cession

The region that the United States acquired from Mexico in 1848 as a result of the Mexican-American War

Tariff of 1842

A protectionist tariff that raised import duties to generate revenue for the U.S. government.

Creole

A ship where British officials in the Bahamas offered asylum to rebelling Virginia slaves who had captured the ship.

"Fifty-Four Forty or Fight"

A slogan used in the 1844 presidential election, advocating for U.S. control of the Oregon Territory up to the 54°40' parallel.

California Bear Flag Republic

The short-lived republic formed by American settlers in California during the Mexican-American War.

Wilmot Proviso

A proposal to ban slavery in the territories acquired from Mexico.

John Tyler

The tenth President of the United States, who annexed Texas and faced political challenges due to his split from the Whig Party.

James K. Polk

The eleventh President of the United States, known for his expansionist policies and role in the Mexican-American War.

John C. Frémont

An American military officer and explorer who played a key role in the conquest of California during the Mexican-American War.

David Wilmot

A U.S. Representative who proposed the Wilmot Proviso, aiming to ban