Chapter 16.1
Manifest Destiny: How the United States Expanded Across a Continent
Discover how the belief in Manifest Destiny drove the United States to acquire vast western territories through diplomacy, purchase, and military conflict during the 19th century.
What You'll Learn
Manifest Destiny justified westward expansion from Atlantic to Pacific Ocean.
Key acquisitions included Louisiana Purchase, Texas, and Oregon Territory.
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo transferred 525,000 square miles from Mexico.
The California Gold Rush accelerated western settlement and statehood processes.
What You'll Practice
1
Students identify key terms like Manifest Destiny and territorial acquisition methods.
2
Learners analyze treaties, wars, and purchases that expanded national boundaries westward.
3
Practice questions assess understanding of causes and consequences of continental expansion.
Why This Matters
Understanding Manifest Destiny and 19th century territorial expansion is essential for analyzing how the United States formed its modern borders and how ideology, diplomacy, and military conflict shape a nation's growth.
This Unit Includes
Practice exercises
Learning resources
Skills
Manifest Destiny
Territorial Expansion
Treaty Analysis
Westward Migration
Continental Acquisition
OH Curriculum Aligned
