Unit 3 Practice Test: Nationalism and Sectionalism -

Answer Key: Unit 3 Test: Nationalism and Sectionalism - Open-Ended Study Guide:

Lewis and Clark's Expedition:

Lewis and Clark's primary goals were to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory, find a water route to the Pacific, and establish peaceful relations with Native American tribes. Their exploration expanded geographical knowledge, identified resources, and facilitated westward expansion.

Jefferson's Louisiana Purchase:

The main criticisms were the perceived unconstitutionality and the high cost of the Louisiana Purchase. The constitutional concern was resolved by the pragmatic interpretation of presidential powers, and the cost was justified by the vast opportunities and resources gained.

Manifest Destiny:

Manifest Destiny shaped American expansion by promoting the belief that the U.S. was destined to expand across the continent. This ideology influenced territorial acquisitions, migration patterns, and interactions with Native American populations.

Territory from Spain (1819):

The acquisition of Florida from Spain in 1819 had consequences such as resolving border disputes, securing trade routes, and eliminating havens for Native American resistance. It strengthened the U.S. position in the South.

End of the Mexican War (1848):

The end of the Mexican War was marked by the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. This resolution granted the U.S. significant territorial gains, including California and the Southwest, shaping the nation's physical and cultural landscape.

Mormons' Trail in the 1840s:

The Mormons chose the Mormon Pioneer Trail (includes part of the Oregon trail)  to escape persecution. They faced challenges such as harsh weather and limited resources but contributed to the settlement of the West, establishing communities like Salt Lake City.

Cherokee Forced Migration (1838):

The Trail of Tears, associated with the forced migration of Cherokees, involved the removal of thousands, causing immense suffering and loss of life. It reflected U.S. policies of Native American dispossession and set a dark precedent.

Sectional Identities:

Sectional identities developed due to geographic, religious, economic, and political differences. These factors contributed to distinct Northern, Southern, and Western identities, impacting issues like slavery and state rights.

Dominant Occupation in the South (Mid-1800s):

Agriculture, particularly plantation-based cotton farming, was the dominant occupation in the South through the mid-1800s. This economic reliance shaped social structures and cultural practices.

Motivations for Early Settlement in the West:

• Economic Opportunities: Attracted settlers seeking fertile land and economic prosperity.( motivated settlement b/t Appalachian mountains and Mississippi River)

• Availability of Land: Provided an opportunity for land ownership and agricultural expansion.

• Interactions with Indigenous Populations: Led to cultural exchanges, conflicts, and shaping of settlement patterns.

Nationalism and Sectionalism:

Definition of Nationalism:

Nationalism is a sense of loyalty and devotion to one's country, fostering unity among citizens. During this period, it played a crucial role in shaping American identity and policies.

• War of 1812 Kicked off growth of nationalism!

Nationalist Leaders and American System:

The American System, proposed by President Madison, aimed to strengthen the economy through a

•  protective tariff (tax on imported goods that helped to achieve economic self sufficiency),

• national bank (establish single currency and facilitate trade), and

•  internal improvements(included construction of national road stretch from MD to Mississippi River & railroads, canals).

• Nationalist leaders like Henry Clay supported this plan to promote economic unity.

Erie Canal and Transportation Systems:

The Erie Canal facilitated trade and transportation, (crucial role in uniting the nation in 19th century) connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic. It contributed to economic growth, expanded markets, and enhanced national unity by connecting regions.

Decline of Canals and Rise of Rail Travel:

The rise of rail travel impacted transportation by providing faster and more efficient means.(Railroads /steam-powered trains)- This technological shift diminished the importance of canals, influencing economic and social structures.

Occupation Shift During the Industrial Revolution:

Large-scale manufacturing replaced farming as the main form of work during the Industrial Revolution. Factories and industrialization became central to economic activity. (And led to the spread of plantations in the south as a result- cotton gin specifically)

Eli Whitney's Contributions:

Eli Whitney's introduction of interchangeable parts revolutionized manufacturing, enabling mass production of firearms. This innovation standardized production processes and increased efficiency.

Economic Basis for Wealth in the Northeast:

Manufacturing and trade were the primary sources of wealth in the Northeast during this period. Industrialization and trade routes contributed to economic prosperity.

Political Changes in an Emerging Democracy:

Expansion of Democracy (1790-1830):

Key figures like Andrew Jackson, Thomas Jefferson, and John Quincy Adams played significant roles in expanding democracy. Their efforts included increased suffrage, the rise of political parties, and a more populist approach.

Factors Contributing to Andrew Jackson's Victory (1828):

Andrew Jackson's victory marked a shift toward a new spirit of democracy characterized by increased voter participation, populism, and a more direct connection between leaders and the electorate.

Changes in Suffrage (1828):

Eliminating property ownership requirements expanded suffrage ( expanded democracy by), making voting rights more inclusive. This change democratized the political process.

Formation of the Democratic Party:

The Democratic Party, formed by Andrew Jackson in 1828, represented ordinary farmers and workers. It advocated for a more populist and democratic approach to governance.(significant role in expansion of democracy from 1790-1830)

• Jackson rewarded loyal supporters with government jobs once he was president; called the “spoils system”

Alien and Sedition Acts (1798):

The Alien and Sedition Acts authorized the president to deport noncitizens and suppress speech critical of the government. They reflected tensions over national security and free speech.

Opposition to Andrew Jackson and the Whig Party:

The Whig Party emerged as opposition to Andrew Jackson's Democratic Party (lead by John Quincy Adams). It attracted those who opposed Jackson's policies, emphasizing a more activist government.

Missouri Compromise:

• Admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state.

• Drew a line at the 36 30’ latitude line

• Prohibiting slavery in the Louisiana Territory north of that line.

Compromise of 1850:

• California was admitted as a free state; Utah and New Mexico territories decided by vote (popular sovereignty)

• Boundary dispute between Texas and New Mexico resolved

• Sale of slaves in Washington D.C. is banned but slavery can continue

• Fugitive Slave Act required people to help capture and return escaped slaves

KS-NE Act:

• The Compromise of 1850 dealt with lands that were part of the Mexican Cession, but not with the lands of the Louisiana Purchase.

• Stephen Douglas proposed that the Nebraska Territory be split into two territories, Kansas and Nebraska.

• The settlers living in each territory would be able to decide the issue of slavery by popular sovereignty.

Additional Facts to know:

• Second Great Awakening inspired reform movements of the early 1800s.

  • Dorothea Dix made significant contributions to prison system and mental health care in the US 

  • Temperance Movement tried to promote moderation in drinking and blamed social issues on alcohol abuse

  • Frederick Douglass powerful spokesman for abolition and former slave that wrote an autobiography about his experiences

  • Seneca Falls Convention marked the beginning of the women’s rights movement and produced the “Declaration of Sentiments”(women’s equal rights)

• African Americans in 1800s:

  • Enslaved people were considered property

  • Forbidden from voting, learning to read and write, owning property and owning guns

  • Free african americans in north faced discrimination and difficulty finding jobs (response of African americans in north was to start own churches, schools, and self-help organizations)