Ch. 13- Western Expansion PDF

The Overland Trails

  • A network of routes used by settlers to move westward in search of opportunities, including the Oregon, California, and Mormon Trails.

The Great Migration

  • A significant movement of settlers to the West during the mid-1800s, driven by economic opportunities and the idea of Manifest Destiny.

Life on the Trail

  • Conditions were challenging with harsh weather, disease, and limited supplies.

  • Pioneers often traveled in family groups and faced numerous hardships each day.

Women Pioneers

  • Women played vital roles in migration, often performing heavy labor and managing family responsibilities amidst difficult circumstances.

The Settlement of California

  • Following the Gold Rush, California saw a massive influx of settlers, transforming its economy and demographics dramatically.

The Donner Party

  • A group of American pioneers who became trapped in the Sierra Nevada during winter, highlighting the dangers of westward migration.

The Pathfinder: John Fremont

  • An explorer known for mapping the western territories, aiding future settlers and influencing American expansion.

American Settlements in Texas

  • Following Mexico's independence, American settlers moved to Texas, leading to tensions with the Mexican government over rights and slavery.

The Texas War for Independence

  • A revolt by settlers against Mexico, seeking autonomy and the ability to maintain slavery.

The Alamo

  • A pivotal battle site in 1836 where Texan defenders fought against Mexican forces, later becoming a rallying cry for Texan independence.

Goliad

  • The site of another massacre of Texan soldiers by Mexican forces, contributing to the Texan resolve for independence.

Sam Houston

  • A military leader and key figure in the Texas War for Independence, later serving as the first president of the Republic of Texas.

The Battle of San Jacinto

  • The decisive battle where Texan forces defeated the Mexican army, leading to Texas independence.

The Lone Star Republic

  • The independent nation of Texas established after its separation from Mexico, existing until it joined the United States.

Whigs & Democrats

  • The political landscape of the time, with conflicts over issues such as expansion and slavery.

John Tyler

  • The 10th President of the United States who supported the annexation of Texas and was seen as a controversial figure in the expansion debate.

Tensions with Britain

  • Disputes over territories, especially concerning Oregon, heightened Britain-U.S. tensions during the expansion period.

A Tragic Curse

  • Refers to the hardships and unforeseen consequences that befell many settlers and those involved in westward expansion efforts.

The Election of 1844

  • A pivotal election centered on expansionist policies, resulting in the victory of James K. Polk.

James K. Polk

  • The 11th President of the United States, known for his aggressive push for territorial expansion including Texas and Oregon.

The State of Texas

  • Became a point of contention for national politics and debates over slavery upon its annexation into the United States.

Polk's Goals

  • Aimed to fulfill American territorial ambitions, specifically through the annexation of Texas and the acquisition of Oregon and California.

Oregon

  • A territory rich in resources that drew the attention of American settlers and was a significant point of conflict with Britain.

Opposition to the War

  • Not all Americans supported the war with Mexico, with arguments against it arising from various political factions.

Preparing for Battle

  • The mobilization of forces and resources in anticipation of military conflict with Mexico.

The Annexation of California

  • Pursued during the Mexican-American War to secure valuable land and resources for the United States.

War in Northern Mexico

  • Major battles and campaigns occurred in this region during the Mexican-American War.

The Saint Patrick's Battalion

  • A unit of predominantly Irish immigrants who fought on the Mexican side during the war, highlighting issues of loyalty and morality.

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

  • The agreement that ended the Mexican-American War, resulting in significant territorial gains for the United States.

The War's Legacies

  • Created lasting changes in the U.S. territorial map, intensified discussions on slavery, and shaped the coming sectional conflicts.