Dec. 15, Demographic Changes & Immigration During Westward Expansion

Demographics: U.S. becomes more diverse (Mexican Americans added after Mexican Cession)

Population: Rapid growth; U.S. population nearly doubles

Religion: Increase in Catholic population (Mexican, Irish immigrants)

Immigration push factors: Famine, war, overcrowding (China, Ireland, Europe)

Immigration pull factors: Jobs, land, social mobility, opportunity

Economic impact: More labor → industrial and western growth

Social impact: Rise of nativism, racism, job competition