Western Expansion and Southern Secession (1830–1861)

These flashcards cover key concepts from the chapter on Western Expansion and Southern Secession, focusing on motives for expansion, the Mexican-American War, slavery in the territories, and the rise of the Republican Party.

What were the main motives for westward movement in the early 19th century?

The motives included economic opportunities, land acquisition, and the spread of American ideals.

What territories did the westward movement primarily focus on?

The movements into Oregon, California, and Texas.

What was the significant outcome of the United States' war with Mexico?

The acquisition of new territories which intensified the debate over the status of slavery.

What new political party emerged during the period of expansion and tensions over slavery?

The Republican Party.

What was the Alamo, and why is it significant?

The Alamo was a pivotal battle in the Texas War for Independence emblematic of the struggle for Texan autonomy from Mexico.

Who was Sam Houston?

He was a key leader in the Texas War for Independence and the first president of the Republic of Texas.

What was the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

The treaty that ended the Mexican-American War and ceded a large portion of Mexico's northern territory to the United States.

What was the Wilmot Proviso?

A proposal to ban slavery in any territory acquired from Mexico, although it was never passed.

What was 'Bleeding Kansas'?

A series of violent events involving anti-slavery and pro-slavery settlers in Kansas as they tried to influence whether it would be a free or slave state.

What was the outcome of Lincoln's election in 1860?

His election triggered the secession of several southern states from the Union.