Key Concepts of American History

Unit 5 covers the period from 1844 to 1877, focusing on Manifest Destiny, western expansion, the Mexican-American War, and the Civil War. It examines the causes and effects of these events, including the sectional conflicts over slavery and states' rights. The unit also explores the Reconstruction era, highlighting the challenges of rebuilding the nation and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. Key topics include the Compromise of 1850, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the Reconstruction Amendments.

What was the main focus of James K. Polk's campaign in the 1844 election?

• Industrialization

• Western expansion

• Economic reform

• Abolition of slavery

Which concept justified the westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century?

• Manifest Destiny

• Isolationism

• Monroe Doctrine

• Federalism

What was a significant outcome of the Mexican-American War?

• Formation of the United Nations

• Industrial revolution

• End of slavery

• Acquisition of new territories

What was the purpose of the Compromise of 1850?

• To end the Civil War

• To balance the power between free and slave states

• To establish a national bank

• To promote industrial growth

Which act led to 'Bleeding Kansas' and increased tensions over slavery?

• Fugitive Slave Act

• Compromise of 1850

• Kansas-Nebraska Act

• Missouri Compromise

What was the significance of the Dred Scott Decision?

• It granted voting rights to women

• It abolished slavery

• It established the Supreme Court

• It declared slaves as property

What was a key factor in the Union's victory in the Civil War?

• Support from European nations

• Control of the Mississippi River

• Superior military leadership

• Use of guerrilla tactics

What was the primary goal of the Emancipation Proclamation?

• To free all slaves in the United States

• To end the Civil War

• To preserve the Union

• To free slaves in the Confederacy

Which amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

• 15th Amendment

• 16th Amendment

• 14th Amendment

• 13th Amendment

What was a major challenge during the Reconstruction era?

• Rebuilding the economy

• Balancing state and federal power

• Expanding westward

• Establishing a national bank