Mexican-American War and Manifest Destiny

The video covers the concept of Manifest Destiny, its origins, and its role in American expansion. It discusses the election of 1844, where James K. Polk's expansionist policies led to the annexation of Texas, Oregon, and California. The tensions with Mexico over these territories eventually led to the Mexican-American War. The video also highlights opposition to the war, including figures like Abraham Lincoln and Henry David Thoreau, and details the war's outcomes, including significant territorial gains for the United States.

What was the primary belief behind Manifest Destiny?

• The belief that America should remain isolated.

• The idea that America was destined to expand across the continent.

• The notion that America should focus on industrialization.

• The belief that America should form alliances with European countries.

Which president was known for his expansionist agenda during the election of 1844?

• Abraham Lincoln

• Henry Clay

• John Quincy Adams

• James K. Polk

What was a major cause of the Mexican-American War?

• The discovery of gold in California.

• The construction of the transcontinental railroad.

• The annexation of Texas and the disputed boundary with Mexico.

• The abolition of slavery in the southern states.

Who was a notable figure that opposed the Mexican-American War?

• Andrew Jackson

• Henry Clay

• Abraham Lincoln

• James K. Polk

What was Henry David Thoreau's response to the Mexican-American War?

• He joined the army to fight in the war.

• He refused to pay taxes and was jailed.

• He wrote an essay supporting the war.

• He supported the war effort.

What was a significant advantage of the U.S. military during the Mexican-American War?

• Larger population and better economy.

• Support from European allies.

• Stronger naval forces.

• Superior training and technology.

Which territory was NOT gained by the U.S. as a result of the Mexican-American War?

• California

• Florida

• Nevada

• Arizona

What was the outcome of the U.S. capturing Mexico City?

• It caused the U.S. to lose the war.

• It had no significant impact on the war.

• It resulted in the end of the war.

• It led to the start of the war.

What was the Gadsden Purchase?

• A purchase of land from Mexico for a railroad.

• A treaty that ended the Mexican-American War.

• An agreement to annex Texas.

• A deal to acquire Alaska from Russia.

How did the concept of Manifest Destiny influence U.S. territorial expansion?

• It led to the isolation of the United States.

• It justified the annexation of territories across the continent.

• It discouraged expansion beyond the Mississippi River.

• It promoted alliances with Native American tribes.