USHISTORY

Mercantilism

European powers controlled trade with their colonies to increase their own wealth. The colonies provided raw materials and served as markets for finished goods. This system is known as

Manifest Destiny

Many Americans in the 1800s believed it was their right and duty to expand across the continent. This idea helped justify the taking of lands from Indigenous peoples and other nations. This was called

Tecumseh

A Native leader who worked to unite tribes against the loss of their lands. He resisted U.S. expansion and allied with British forces during conflict.

Assimilation 

This is what it is called when natives were pressured or forced to adopt the language, religion, and customs of another group. This often meant giving up their original identity and traditions.

Marginalization  

Term used to refer to certain groups have been pushed to the edges of society and denied equal rights or opportunities. Their voices and needs were often ignored or silenced.

The Gold Rush of 1849

A major discovery in the West led to a sudden flood of people seeking quick riches. It caused rapid population growth and major changes to the region. This was known as

Vaqueros

These skilled horseback riders were early cattle herders in the American Southwest. Their techniques and culture strongly influenced cowboy traditions.

Indian Removal Act

The government passed a law forcing Native peoples off their ancestral lands in the Southeast. They were relocated to distant territories, often against their will.

Lewis and Clark Expedition

A government-sponsored expedition explored newly acquired western lands. They were guided in part by a Native woman who helped them navigate and communicate with local tribes.

Louisiana Purchase

A large land deal with France nearly doubled the size of the United States. It opened vast areas for exploration and settlement.

Oregon Trail

Thousands of settlers traveled west along a long, dangerous route in hopes of finding fertile land and new opportunities. The journey was filled with hardships like disease, accidents, and rough terrain.

Adam's Onis Treaty

An agreement with Spain gave the United States control over Florida. It also helped define the young country's western boundary more clearly.

Trail of Tears

Thousands of Native people were marched west under harsh conditions. Many died along the way due to disease, hunger, and exposure.

Texas Annexation

A nation that had won it's independence from Mexico joined the United States, leading to conflict with Mexico. This move was popular in some regions but controversial in others.

Indian Removal Act

All of the following acts were used to maintain a balance of slave and free states in the country except