American Expansion and Key Events

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to American expansion, significant events, individuals, and economic principles discussed in the lecture.

Lewis and Clark Expedition

Mapped the Louisiana Purchase and explored the western territories.

Sacagawea

A Shoshone woman who aided Lewis and Clark in their expedition.

Louisiana Purchase

A land purchase that doubled the size of the United States, encompassing land between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains.

War of 1812

Conflict fought primarily to protect the United States' right to trade freely.

Trail of Tears

The forced relocation path of the Cherokee from their ancestral lands.

Alamo

Historical site of a pivotal battle for Texas independence from Mexico.

Oregon Trail

A major route for pioneers traveling to the Pacific Northwest, approximately 2,000 miles long.

Wilderness Road

A key route built by Daniel Boone that facilitated westward expansion.

California Gold Rush

Mass migration to California following the discovery of gold.

Electric Telegraph

Invention by Samuel Morse that revolutionized long-distance communication.

Cotton Gin

Invented by Eli Whitney to quickly separate cotton fibers from seeds.

Locomotive

A technology that allowed for transportation of goods and people across great distances.

Opportunity Cost

The value of what is given up when making a choice.

Voluntary Exchange

Trade where both buyers and sellers benefit from the transaction.

Challenges in Westward Travel

Difficulties such as long distances, mountains, and lack of resources faced by pioneers.