Chapter 1
United States History, Government, and Citizenship
Course: Elementary Education Multiple Subjects 5001
Subject: Elementary Education Social Studies Subtest 5004
Chapter: United States History Government And Citizenship
1. Westward Expansion (1800s)
Context: In the early 19th century, the U.S. population began to grow rapidly, and settlers pushed westward across the Appalachian Mountains. Politicians and citizens alike embraced the idea of "Manifest Destiny" — the belief that the nation was destined to stretch coast to coast.
Key Developments:
- Louisiana Purchase (1803): The U.S. purchased over 800,000 square miles from France for $15 million. It doubled the nation's size and opened the way for western migration and exploration.
- Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–1806): Commissioned by President Jefferson, this expedition mapped the territory, recorded flora and fauna, and made contact with Native American tribes. It provided critical geographic and scientific data.
- Indian Removal Act (1830): Enforced under Andrew Jackson, it led to the relocation of thousands of Native Americans to “Indian Territory” (present-day Oklahoma). The Trail of Tears resulted in the death of approximately 4,000 Cherokee people due to disease, starvation, and exposure.
- Texas Annexation (1845) and Mexican-American War (1846–1848): The U.S. added vast new territories including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada. This raised tensions over whether new states would allow slavery.
- Homestead Act (1862): Offered 160 acres of land to settlers for free if they improved it. It led to mass migration westward but increased land conflicts with Native Americans.