Manifest Destiny and U.S. Expansion

This lecture explores the concept of Manifest Destiny and its impact on westward expansion in the United States from 1844 to 1877. It covers the migration westward for resources, economic opportunities, and religious refuge, highlighting the gold rush and fur trade. The lecture also discusses the role of nationalism in promoting Manifest Destiny, the influence of legislation like the Homestead Act, and the expansion of trade with Asia, particularly Japan.

What was the primary theme discussed in the introduction of the lecture?

• Cultural diversity

• Technological advancements

• Geography in the environment

• Economic development

Which event significantly increased migration to California in the 1840s?

• The Gold Rush

• The Oregon Trail

• The Louisiana Purchase

• The Homestead Act

Why did the Mormons migrate to Utah?

• To engage in the fur trade

• To escape discrimination

• To find gold

• To join the railroad industry

Who popularized the term 'Manifest Destiny'?

• Brigham Young

• Horace Greeley

• James K. Polk

• John O'Sullivan

What was a key factor that fueled the concept of Manifest Destiny?

• Industrialization

• Religious freedom

• Nationalism

• Agricultural expansion

Which treaty resolved the territorial dispute in the Pacific Northwest?

• Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

• Treaty of Kanagawa

• Gadsden Purchase

• Oregon Treaty

What was the purpose of the Gadsden Purchase?

• To acquire land for a southern transcontinental railroad

• To settle the Oregon boundary dispute

• To annex Texas

• To purchase Alaska from Russia

Which act allowed settlers to claim land before it was officially organized?

• Morrill Act

• Pacific Railway Act

• Homestead Act

• Preemption Act

What was the main goal of the Homestead Act of 1862?

• To promote the fur trade

• To encourage settlement in the Great Plains

• To expand the railroad network

• To establish new ports on the West Coast

How did Commodore Perry influence U.S. trade with Asia?

• By negotiating the Louisiana Purchase

• By opening Japan to trade

• By leading the Gold Rush

• By establishing the Oregon Trail