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Manifest Destiny

The belief that America was destined to expand from the Atlantic to the Pacific, creating an 'empire of liberty.'

Indian Removal Policies

Policies exemplified by Andrew Jackson's actions that led to the forced relocation of Native American tribes, culminating in events like the Trail of Tears.

Trail of Tears

The forced relocation of thousands of Cherokee and other tribes, resulting in significant suffering and loss.

Westward Migration

The movement of hundreds of thousands of settlers westward via various trails during 1840-1860, often facing hardships.

Texas Independence (1836)

The struggle for independence from Mexico, which resulted in its annexation under President Polk.

Mexican-American War

A conflict that resulted in significant territorial gains for the U.S., intensifying national disputes over slavery.

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

The treaty that transferred large portions of Mexico to the United States after the Mexican-American War.

Expansionism

Policies driven by the belief in Manifest Destiny, aimed at shaping American identity through freedom and democracy.

California Gold Rush

A period that attracted diverse populations seeking fortune and transformed the demographic and economic landscape.

Crisis Over New Territories

Conflicts arising over whether newly admitted states would be free or slave states, threatening the balance in Congress.