Manifest Destiny

Unit 8 Review Notes: Manifest Destiny and Westward Expansion

Northwest Ordinance

  • Purpose: Established procedures for territories to become states on equal footing with original states, ensured orderly expansion.

  • Key Provisions:

    • Land set aside for education.

    • Prohibited slavery in the Northwest Territory.

    • Conditions for territory governance:

      • 5,000 free males to elect own leaders.

      • 60,000 total free population to become a state.

      • 5,000 free males owning 50 acres of land.

Land Acquisitions

  • Notable purchases and annexations during westward expansion:

    • Louisiana Purchase: Doubled the U.S. size in early 1800s.

    • Mexican Cession: Land ceded from Mexico, included California, Nevada, etc.

    • Florida: Acquired from Spain via the Adams-Onis Treaty.

    • Oregon: Acquired from Great Britain at the 49th Parallel.

    • Gadsden Purchase: U.S. bought for $10 million to complete the southern transcontinental railroad.

    • Texas: Annexed, leading to significant tensions.

Concept of Manifest Destiny

  • Definition: The belief that U.S. was destined to expand from coast to coast.

  • Impact:

    • Fueled westward settlement and Native American removal.

    • Justified the U.S.-Mexican War.

Reasons for Supporting Manifest Destiny

  • Economic:

    • Expanded markets, trade, and agricultural opportunities.

  • Political:

    • Aimed to spread democracy.

    • Expansion of U.S. territory and borders.

  • Social:

    • Promoted American culture and religion.

    • Provided refuge for persecuted groups, e.g., Mormons.

Opposition to Texas Annexation

  • Northeast Concerns:

    • Fears of slavery expansion and increased political power for the South.

    • Concerns over Texas' debts and relations with Mexico.

U.S.-Mexican War

  • Role of Manifest Destiny: Contributed to the conflict between the U.S. and Mexico.

  • President Polk's Actions: Sent troops to patrol disputed territories, escalating tensions.

  • Outcome: Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo signed, Mexico ceded significant territory.

Consequences of Gold Rush

  • Accelerated westward migration of settlers to California.

  • Led to an economic boom in California.

Contributions of Immigrant Groups in 19th Century

  • Irish Americans:

    • Key roles in building infrastructure: Erie Canal, railroads.

    • Involved in public service.

  • Hispanic Americans:

    • Developed ranches in California, influenced cattle herding traditions.

  • German Americans:

    • Introduced educational concepts (kindergarten), musical traditions, and crafts.

Symbolism in American Art

  • "American Progress": Depicted the spread of civilization and democracy; represented manifest destiny.

Historical Context

  • Impact of Geography: Physical barriers influenced migration patterns and settlement areas during westward expansion.

  • Key Trails:

    • Oregon Trail: Based on Lewis and Clark's expeditions, a primary route westward.

    • Santa Fe Trail: New trade route to Mexican markets.

    • Mormon Trail: Path taken by Mormons seeking religious freedom.

Summary of Historical Events

  • Significant Events Leading to Expansion:

    • Treaty of Paris (1783) established early borders post-American Revolution.

    • Polk's campaign aimed at extending borders to the Pacific Ocean, marked by his slogan "54-40 or Fight!".

    • Acquisitions through treaties and wars reshaped U.S. geography and demographics.