Westward Expansion
What was Manifest Destiny?
The U.S. was destined to expand across North American to spread democracy and civilization.
What event led to Mexico and America going to war?
Why did the North oppose the expansion of slavery into new territories?
They believed it undermined free labor and threatened moral values.
What was the Homestead Act?
Offered 160 acres of land to settlers who would farm, cultivate and improve land in the west.
How did Manifest Destiny justify U.S. territorial expansion?
It claimed a divine duty to spread democracy and civilization.
What act required citizens to assist in capturing runaway slaves and denied fugitives a jury trial?
The Fugitive Slave Act of 1850
How did the California Gold Rush of 1849 influence westward expansion?
It transformed California into a booming region with a rapidly growing population.
What issue did the Mexican Cession reignite in the U.S?
The question of allowing slavery in newly acquired territories.
What did the Wilmot Proviso propse?
Banning slavery in territories gained from Mexico.
How were Native Indians impacted by U.S. territorial expansion?
They faced displacement, economic disruption, and loss of cultural independence.
This treaty ended the Mexican American War.
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
How did the Dred Scott decision impact the slavery debate?
It ruled that Congress could not ban slavery in the territories, deepening sectional tensions.
What role did the Pacific Railway Acts play in westward expansion?
They facilitated the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, promoting migration and trade.
What was the result of the Mexican American war?
The U.S gained vast territories, including california and New Mexico.
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