Manifest Destiny
What is Manifest Destiny?
The belief that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable.
What was the Missouri Compromise?
The Missouri Compromise was an agreement made in 1820 to maintain the balance of power between slave and free states.
Who was David Crockett?
David Crockett was a famous frontiersman and soldier who fought at the Alamo during the Texas War for Independence.
Who were the fur traders and why were they important?
Fur traders were individuals or groups who traveled west to trade animal pelts; they played a crucial role in opening up the West for settlement.
Who was James K. Polk?
James K. Polk was the 11th President of the United States, serving from 1845 to 1849.
Manifest Destiny led to the forced removal of Native American tribes from their lands, resulting in loss of culture and lives.
What were the main provisions of the Missouri Compromise?
It admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, and established a line (36°30′) to determine future slave and free states.
What were the main causes of the Texas War for Independence?
The main causes included dissatisfaction with Mexican rule, cultural differences, and the desire for self-governance.
What motivated Mormons to move west?
Mormons were motivated by religious persecution and sought a safe haven in Utah where they could practice their faith freely.
What were the key events of Polk's presidency?
Key events included the annexation of Texas, the Oregon boundary settlement, and the Mexican-American War.
What were the economic incentives for westward expansion?
Economic incentives included the search for new agricultural land, resources like gold and silver, and the opportunity for trade.
How did the Missouri Compromise impact the expansion of slavery?
It temporarily eased tensions regarding the spread of slavery into new territories, but did not resolve the underlying conflicts.
What role did Sam Houston play in Texas Independence?
Sam Houston was a key leader of the Texian Army and later became the first President of the Republic of Texas.
What challenges did settlers face on the Oregon Trail?
Settlers faced challenges such as harsh weather, difficult terrain, and threats from Native American tribes.
How did the annexation of Texas happen?
The annexation of Texas occurred after a joint resolution passed by Congress, which was influenced by the belief in Manifest Destiny.
How did Manifest Destiny influence U.S. foreign policy?
It led to conflicts with other nations, particularly regarding territorial disputes and the justification for war (e.g., the Mexican-American War).
Which states were involved in the Missouri Compromise?
Missouri and Maine were the two states directly involved in the compromise.
What happened at the Alamo?
The Alamo was a pivotal battle where a small group of Texian defenders fought against a much larger Mexican force, ultimately leading to their defeat.
What was the significance of the Santa Fe Trail?
The Santa Fe Trail was significant as a trade route that connected Missouri to Santa Fe, facilitating commerce and cultural exchange.
What was the Oregon boundary settlement?
The Oregon boundary settlement resolved a dispute with Britain over the Oregon Territory, establishing the border at the 49th parallel.
What role did Manifest Destiny play in the Mexican-American War?
Manifest Destiny was a driving force behind the Mexican-American War, as it justified U.S. expansion into Mexican territories.
How did the Missouri Compromise set the stage for future conflicts?
It highlighted the sectional divisions in the U.S. and set a precedent for future compromises regarding slavery.
What is the legacy of the Alamo in American history?
The legacy of the Alamo symbolizes the struggle for independence and has become a rallying point for Texan pride and resistance.
How did westward movement affect Native American tribes?
Westward movement often led to the displacement of Native American tribes, loss of their lands, and conflicts over resources.
What were the outcomes of Polk's presidency on US expansion?
The outcomes of Polk's presidency expanded U.S. territory significantly, but also intensified debates over slavery in the newly acquired lands.