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Kami Export - Emily Walker - Amsco 2020 - Unit 5 STUDENT
Topic 5.2: The Idea of Manifest Destiny
Manifest Destiny: A 19th-century doctrine that the U.S. was destined by God to expand its territory across North America. This ideology was propelled forward by influential writers like John O'Sullivan in the 1840s, who coined the term, arguing that westward expansion was not only inevitable but morally justified.
Expansionist Aims
Expansionists sought to extend U.S. territory to the Pacific Ocean, as well as into regions such as Mexico, Central America, and even Cuba. They believed this expansion would promote American values and civilization.
Causes of Westward Expansion (1844-1877)
Nationalism: A strong sense of national pride fueled desires for territorial growth, reflecting a belief in the superiority of American culture and institutions.
Population Growth: Increased birth rates and immigration expanded the population, prompting settlers to seek new lands for housing and opportunity.
Economic Development: The quest for new markets and resources drove many to seek land for agriculture and trade, especially during economic downturns.
Technological Advances: Innovations like the telegraph, steam engine, and railroads made travel and communication faster and more efficient, facilitating westward migration.
Reform Ideals: The belief in American exceptionalism, the idea that the U.S. had a unique mission to spread democracy and freedom, spurred westward movement.
Conflicts Over Territorial Expansion
Texas Background
Texas was originally part of Mexico; in 1823, the Mexican government allowed American settlers to colonize the area, thinking they could help develop it. However, conflict arose as tensions grew over issues such as slavery and cultural differences.
Conflict: In 1830, Mexico restricted further American immigration and imposed anti-slavery laws, leading to escalating tensions. American settlers revolted against Mexican rule, declaring Texas an independent republic in 1836 after the pivotal Battle of San Jacinto.
Annexation: Texas sought to join the U.S., but the annexation faced opposition in Congress due to the slavery issue and fears of provoking war with Mexico.
Oregon Territory Claim Dispute
The Oregan Territory was jointly claimed by the U.S. and Britain. Disputes arose over the territory's boundaries, particularly the northern boundary of the territory.
Adoption of Oregon Trail: Thousands of settlers migrated westward along the Oregon Trail, drawn by the promise of fertile lands in the Willamette Valley, facing numerous hardships including disease and harsh weather.
1844 Election: The issue of Manifest Destiny was a focal point in the election, with Democrat James K. Polk earning support through his slogan "Fifty-Four Forty or Fight!" which referred to the northern latitude of the desired Oregon Territory.
The Election of 1844
Democratic Nomination: Polk, a strong advocate for Manifest Destiny, won the election after a contentious deadlock, positioning himself against Henry Clay, the Whig candidate.
Whig Party Response: Clay's inconsistent stance on the annexation of Texas led to loss of support, particularly in key regions like New York, ultimately costing him the election.
Annexing Texas and Settling the Oregon Territory
Tyler Administration: President John Tyler prioritized Texas annexation through a simple majority resolution, bypassing the need for a treaty, which ultimately facilitated Texas's admission to the Union in 1845.
Oregon Compromise: Under Polk’s presidency, instead of escalating tensions with Britain, a compromise was reached at the 49th parallel to peacefully settle the boundary dispute over the Oregon Territory.
Westward Migration and Settlement
Mountain Men: Fur traders such as Kit Carson were instrumental in forging and opening trails leading west, which future settlers would follow.
Pioneer Trails: Settlers utilized established routes like the Oregon and California Trails, navigating numerous dangers like treacherous terrain, wildlife, and potential conflicts with Native Americans.
Economic Opportunities in the West
Mining Frontier: The Gold Rush of 1848 triggered mass migrations westward, particularly to California, resulting in significant demographic changes, and the rapid establishment of urban centers like San Francisco.
Diversity Among Miners: The mining camps welcomed a range of individuals, including many women and a notable number of Chinese immigrants, contributing to a diverse cultural landscape in the newly formed cities.
Farming Frontier: The Homestead Movement encouraged settlement by offering low-cost parcels of land primarily to middle-class families, leading to the development of agricultural communities reminiscent of those in the East.
Government Policies and the Economy
Transportation Advances: The development of railroads improved infrastructure, enabling faster movement of goods and people and linking the East with the expanding West. The growth of shipping infrastructure facilitated commerce, particularly in agricultural and mineral products.
Trade Expansion: Enhancements in ship designs and technology allowed for increased trade with Asia and other regions, further integrating the American economy into global markets.
Topic 5.3: Manifest Destiny and the Mexican-American War
Annexation of Texas: This action created escalating tensions with Mexico, which viewed this move as an invasion. Polk's administration failed to negotiate a peaceful resolution, leading to military conflict.
Immediate Causes of the War: The violent clash that resulted in the killings of American patrols at the hands of Mexican soldiers provided a pretext for declaring war in 1846.
Military Campaigns: The U.S. enjoyed several significant victories during the war, culminating in the capture of Mexico City in 1847.
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848): This treaty ended the war, with the U.S. gaining vast territories including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, for $15 million. The land acquisition reignited intense debates regarding the expansion of slavery into these territories.
Wilmot Proviso: This proposed legislation aimed to ban the institution of slavery in the newly acquired territories from Mexico, highlighting the sectional tensions between North and South over slavery policy.
Topic 5.4: The Compromise of 1850
Overview: A collection of five separate laws intended to ease tensions surrounding slavery in the newly acquired territories. It admitted California as a free state, abolished the slave trade in Washington D.C., and enacted a stricter Fugitive Slave Law that mandated citizens assist in the capturing of runaway slaves.
Topic 5.5: Sectional Conflict
Immigration and Regional Differences (1844-1877)
Increased Immigration: A substantial influx of immigrants, particularly from Ireland and Germany, occurred during this period, profoundly affecting American culture and economy.
Nativism: Rising fears among native-born Americans regarding job competition and cultural dilution gave rise to nativist sentiments, resulting in the formation of the Know-Nothing Party which aimed to restrict immigration.
Ethnic Conflict in the Southwest
American Indians and Mexican Americans: Following annexation, both groups encountered significant discrimination and faced numerous legal and civil rights challenges.
Economic Changes and Industrialization
Economic Growth: The U.S. rapidly industrialized after 1840, with railroads facilitating faster transport and trade, contributing to an expanding economy.
Topic 5.6: Failure of Compromise and the Road to Civil War
Political Divide: The U.S. became increasingly divided over slavery, leading to heightened sectional tensions. The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 reversed the Missouri Compromise, allowing popular sovereignty to determine the slavery status of territories, resulting in violent confrontations referred to as "Bleeding Kansas."
Dred Scott Decision Impact: The Supreme Court ruled that African Americans could not sue for their freedom, declaring the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional, thereby escalating tensions further between North and South.
Topic 5.8: Military Conflict in the Civil War
War Factors: An examination of the Union’s advantages in terms of resources, population, and infrastructure, contrasted against the Confederacy’s military leadership and commitment.
Key Battles: Major battles such as Bull Run, Antietam, Gettysburg, and Vicksburg showcased critical turning points in the war, influencing its ultimate outcome.
Topic 5.9: Government Policies
Lincoln's Leadership: President Abraham Lincoln emphasized executive powers during the war, including measures such as suspending habeas corpus.
Confiscation Acts: These laws authorized the seizure of enslaved African Americans who escaped to Union lines, including them as contraband.
Emancipation Proclamation: This landmark document aimed at abolishing slavery in states that were in rebellion against the Union, transforming the purpose of the Civil War.
Black Soldiers: Approximately 200,000 African Americans served in the Union army, marking a pivotal moment in both the military and social fabric of the nation.
Kami Export - Emily Walker - Amsco 2020 - Unit 5 STUDENT
Topic 5.2: The Idea of Manifest Destiny
Manifest Destiny: A 19th-century doctrine that the U.S. was destined by God to expand its territory across North America. This ideology was propelled forward by influential writers like John O'Sullivan in the 1840s, who coined the term, arguing that westward expansion was not only inevitable but morally justified.
Expansionist Aims
Expansionists sought to extend U.S. territory to the Pacific Ocean, as well as into regions such as Mexico, Central America, and even Cuba. They believed this expansion would promote American values and civilization.
Causes of Westward Expansion (1844-1877)
Nationalism: A strong sense of national pride fueled desires for territorial growth, reflecting a belief in the superiority of American culture and institutions.
Population Growth: Increased birth rates and immigration expanded the population, prompting settlers to seek new lands for housing and opportunity.
Economic Development: The quest for new markets and resources drove many to seek land for agriculture and trade, especially during economic downturns.
Technological Advances: Innovations like the telegraph, steam engine, and railroads made travel and communication faster and more efficient, facilitating westward migration.
Reform Ideals: The belief in American exceptionalism, the idea that the U.S. had a unique mission to spread democracy and freedom, spurred westward movement.
Conflicts Over Territorial Expansion
Texas Background
Texas was originally part of Mexico; in 1823, the Mexican government allowed American settlers to colonize the area, thinking they could help develop it. However, conflict arose as tensions grew over issues such as slavery and cultural differences.
Conflict: In 1830, Mexico restricted further American immigration and imposed anti-slavery laws, leading to escalating tensions. American settlers revolted against Mexican rule, declaring Texas an independent republic in 1836 after the pivotal Battle of San Jacinto.
Annexation: Texas sought to join the U.S., but the annexation faced opposition in Congress due to the slavery issue and fears of provoking war with Mexico.
Oregon Territory Claim Dispute
The Oregan Territory was jointly claimed by the U.S. and Britain. Disputes arose over the territory's boundaries, particularly the northern boundary of the territory.
Adoption of Oregon Trail: Thousands of settlers migrated westward along the Oregon Trail, drawn by the promise of fertile lands in the Willamette Valley, facing numerous hardships including disease and harsh weather.
1844 Election: The issue of Manifest Destiny was a focal point in the election, with Democrat James K. Polk earning support through his slogan "Fifty-Four Forty or Fight!" which referred to the northern latitude of the desired Oregon Territory.
The Election of 1844
Democratic Nomination: Polk, a strong advocate for Manifest Destiny, won the election after a contentious deadlock, positioning himself against Henry Clay, the Whig candidate.
Whig Party Response: Clay's inconsistent stance on the annexation of Texas led to loss of support, particularly in key regions like New York, ultimately costing him the election.
Annexing Texas and Settling the Oregon Territory
Tyler Administration: President John Tyler prioritized Texas annexation through a simple majority resolution, bypassing the need for a treaty, which ultimately facilitated Texas's admission to the Union in 1845.
Oregon Compromise: Under Polk’s presidency, instead of escalating tensions with Britain, a compromise was reached at the 49th parallel to peacefully settle the boundary dispute over the Oregon Territory.
Westward Migration and Settlement
Mountain Men: Fur traders such as Kit Carson were instrumental in forging and opening trails leading west, which future settlers would follow.
Pioneer Trails: Settlers utilized established routes like the Oregon and California Trails, navigating numerous dangers like treacherous terrain, wildlife, and potential conflicts with Native Americans.
Economic Opportunities in the West
Mining Frontier: The Gold Rush of 1848 triggered mass migrations westward, particularly to California, resulting in significant demographic changes, and the rapid establishment of urban centers like San Francisco.
Diversity Among Miners: The mining camps welcomed a range of individuals, including many women and a notable number of Chinese immigrants, contributing to a diverse cultural landscape in the newly formed cities.
Farming Frontier: The Homestead Movement encouraged settlement by offering low-cost parcels of land primarily to middle-class families, leading to the development of agricultural communities reminiscent of those in the East.
Government Policies and the Economy
Transportation Advances: The development of railroads improved infrastructure, enabling faster movement of goods and people and linking the East with the expanding West. The growth of shipping infrastructure facilitated commerce, particularly in agricultural and mineral products.
Trade Expansion: Enhancements in ship designs and technology allowed for increased trade with Asia and other regions, further integrating the American economy into global markets.
Topic 5.3: Manifest Destiny and the Mexican-American War
Annexation of Texas: This action created escalating tensions with Mexico, which viewed this move as an invasion. Polk's administration failed to negotiate a peaceful resolution, leading to military conflict.
Immediate Causes of the War: The violent clash that resulted in the killings of American patrols at the hands of Mexican soldiers provided a pretext for declaring war in 1846.
Military Campaigns: The U.S. enjoyed several significant victories during the war, culminating in the capture of Mexico City in 1847.
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848): This treaty ended the war, with the U.S. gaining vast territories including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, for $15 million. The land acquisition reignited intense debates regarding the expansion of slavery into these territories.
Wilmot Proviso: This proposed legislation aimed to ban the institution of slavery in the newly acquired territories from Mexico, highlighting the sectional tensions between North and South over slavery policy.
Topic 5.4: The Compromise of 1850
Overview: A collection of five separate laws intended to ease tensions surrounding slavery in the newly acquired territories. It admitted California as a free state, abolished the slave trade in Washington D.C., and enacted a stricter Fugitive Slave Law that mandated citizens assist in the capturing of runaway slaves.
Topic 5.5: Sectional Conflict
Immigration and Regional Differences (1844-1877)
Increased Immigration: A substantial influx of immigrants, particularly from Ireland and Germany, occurred during this period, profoundly affecting American culture and economy.
Nativism: Rising fears among native-born Americans regarding job competition and cultural dilution gave rise to nativist sentiments, resulting in the formation of the Know-Nothing Party which aimed to restrict immigration.
Ethnic Conflict in the Southwest
American Indians and Mexican Americans: Following annexation, both groups encountered significant discrimination and faced numerous legal and civil rights challenges.
Economic Changes and Industrialization
Economic Growth: The U.S. rapidly industrialized after 1840, with railroads facilitating faster transport and trade, contributing to an expanding economy.
Topic 5.6: Failure of Compromise and the Road to Civil War
Political Divide: The U.S. became increasingly divided over slavery, leading to heightened sectional tensions. The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 reversed the Missouri Compromise, allowing popular sovereignty to determine the slavery status of territories, resulting in violent confrontations referred to as "Bleeding Kansas."
Dred Scott Decision Impact: The Supreme Court ruled that African Americans could not sue for their freedom, declaring the Missouri Compromise unconstitutional, thereby escalating tensions further between North and South.
Topic 5.8: Military Conflict in the Civil War
War Factors: An examination of the Union’s advantages in terms of resources, population, and infrastructure, contrasted against the Confederacy’s military leadership and commitment.
Key Battles: Major battles such as Bull Run, Antietam, Gettysburg, and Vicksburg showcased critical turning points in the war, influencing its ultimate outcome.
Topic 5.9: Government Policies
Lincoln's Leadership: President Abraham Lincoln emphasized executive powers during the war, including measures such as suspending habeas corpus.
Confiscation Acts: These laws authorized the seizure of enslaved African Americans who escaped to Union lines, including them as contraband.
Emancipation Proclamation: This landmark document aimed at abolishing slavery in states that were in rebellion against the Union, transforming the purpose of the Civil War.
Black Soldiers: Approximately 200,000 African Americans served in the Union army, marking a pivotal moment in both the military and social fabric of the nation.
