1. Take land 2.expand borders 3.Mexican revolts

Manifest Destiny

Belief that the U.S. was ordained by God to expand its borders westward across the entire North American continent from the Atlantic to the pacific.

Oregon Trail

A 2,170 mile wagon route used by hundreds and thousands of American pioneers in the 1840s-1860s to move west.

Californios

Wealthy, Spanish speaking residents of California who were typically of Spanish or Mexican decent.

“Fifty-four forty or fight!”

1844 presidential campaign slogan meaning the U.S. should claim all of the Pacific Northwest up to the 54’40 latitude line or go to war with Britain.

Bear Flag Republic

A short-lived, unrecognized country created by American settlers in California who revolted against Mexican rule in 1846.