westward expansion

Manifest Destiny The belief that the U.S. was destined by God to expand its territory across North America, bringing liberty and civilization. Creation of Manifest Destiny Defined during the 1840s, particularly in the context of U.S. territorial expansion. Impact on Native Americans Forced relocation, violence, and displacement from ancestral lands. Impact on Slavery The expansion created tensions over whether new states would allow slavery. Personal Motivation for Moving West Seeking new opportunities, land, and resources; escaping economic hardship or religious persecution. American Culture's View Manifest Destiny was seen as a divine mission, especially depicted in art, like the 'American Progress' painting. Excuse for Expansion While the concept claimed it was for spreading liberty, it often served as justification for imperialism and the conquest of lands. Settling the West People moved via trails (Oregon, Santa Fe, California) and established towns, farms, and businesses. California & Oregon Settlement The California Gold Rush and Oregon's fertile land attracted settlers earlier than the Great Plains. The Oregon Trail The arduous journey faced harsh conditions, disease, and long travel times, but settlers were motivated by economic opportunity and land promises. John O'Sullivan Journalist who coined the term 'Manifest Destiny.' Joseph Smith & Brigham Young Founders of Mormonism; Smith established the faith, and Young led Mormons to Utah for religious freedom. American Progress Painting Depicts Columbia (symbolizing America) spreading westward, carrying civilization and technology. Mountain Men Trappers and explorers who helped pave the way for settlers. Trails Oregon Trail, Santa Fe Trail, and California Trail—routes taken by settlers. Oregon Fever The mass migration to Oregon for fertile land and a fresh start. Gold Rush 1848 discovery of gold in California, leading to a massive influx of settlers. Mormon Migration The relocation of Mormons to Utah to escape persecution and establish a religious community. Texas Revolution The conflict between Texas settlers and the Mexican government leading to Texas independence. Two things in 1821 Mexico gained independence from Spain, and Stephen Austin brought settlers into Texas. Upset by Coahuila-Tejas Province Americans resented the merging of Texas with Coahuila, which diluted their political influence. Attempted Purchase of Texas The U.S. tried to buy Texas, but Mexico refused, fearing the loss of territory. Austin in 1833 Stephen Austin was imprisoned in Mexico for advocating Texas independence. Santa Anna's Actions in 1834 Santa Anna became a dictator, centralizing power and restricting Texas' autonomy. Texan Organizing Texans sought independence due to their grievances over Mexico's control, including restrictions on slavery and self-government. Key Figures at the Alamo William Travis, James Bowie, Davy Crockett, and Juan Seguin were key defenders. Santa Anna's Surprise He attacked quickly, catching the defenders off-guard. Travis' Orders Sam Houston wanted Bowie to abandon the Alamo, but he stayed to defend. The Alamo's Tragic Outcome Texans never learned of reinforcements and were overwhelmed. Remember the Alamo & Remember the Goliad Both refer to massacres that galvanized Texan resistance. Texas Declaration of Independence Document declaring Texas' independence from Mexico. Battle of the Alamo 1836 battle where Texan forces were overwhelmed by Santa Anna's troops. Battle of San Jacinto The final battle of the Texas Revolution, resulting in Texan victory and Santa Anna's capture. Treaty of Velasco Treaty that ended the Texas Revolution, granting Texas independence. Annexation of Texas The process of incorporating Texas into the United States. Arguments for Annexation Manifest Destiny, expanding the U.S. and securing Texas from potential foreign threats. Arguments Against Annexation Fear of exacerbating tensions over slavery, the costs of war, and the impact on U.S.-Mexico relations. President Tyler's Position Supported annexation but faced opposition in Congress. President Polk's Position Advocated for the annexation and succeeded in bringing Texas into the Union. Texas as a Slave State Texas was admitted as a slave state, fueling further division over slavery. 54° 40' or Fight Polk's slogan related to the boundary dispute with Britain over Oregon Territory. Causes of the Mexican-American War Mexico's instability and Polk's actions provoked the conflict. American blood spilled on American soil This statement was misleading because the conflict was in disputed territory, not U.S. soil. Why America Won Superior resources, military strategy, and leadership gave the U.S. an advantage. Zachary Taylor's Role Led successful campaigns, but was demoted after his popularity surged. Polk's Motivation for NM and CA Polk wanted to secure these territories for strategic and economic reasons. Santa Anna's Return After being exiled, Santa Anna regained power but was defeated by American forces. Amphibious Assault The U.S. launched its first large amphibious assault at Veracruz. End of War The U.S. and Mexico signed the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, ending the conflict and establishing the Rio Grande as the border. Battle of Monterrey A significant victory for U.S. forces in northern Mexico. Bear Flag Revolt American settlers in California rebelled against Mexico, leading to California's declaration of independence. Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Ended the war and ceded large territories to the U.S. President Polk Led the U.S. through the Mexican-American War and pushed for territorial expansion. Santa Anna Mexican general and president, whose actions led to the war. Zachary Taylor U.S. general who achieved victories during the war and later became president. General Kearny Led forces into New Mexico and California, securing them for the U.S. John Fremont Led the Bear Flag Revolt and played a key role in California's conquest. Winfield Scott Led the amphibious assault on Veracruz and the final assault on Mexico City.