Overview
This lecture covers Manifest Destiny, westward expansion, the Texas War for Independence, and the political developments tied to U.S. territorial growth in the mid-1800s.
Manifest Destiny and Westward Expansion
- Manifest Destiny was the belief that Americans were destined by God to expand westward across the continent.
- This expansion aimed to spread Protestant Christianity, capitalism, liberty, and prosperity.
- Westward movement oppressed minorities, including Native Americans, African Americans, and immigrant laborers.
- Missouri was the main jumping-off point for western migration, with trails like the Oregon, California, Mormon, Santa Fe, and Old Spanish serving as primary routes.
- Life on the trail was dangerous, with risks from disease, weather, accidents, and lack of supplies.
- Women often broke gender norms, taking on roles traditionally held by men, fueling early women’s rights movements in the West.
- The Donner Party tragedy exemplified the extreme hardships and dangers faced by migrants.
Gold Rush and the California Frontier
- Gold was discovered in 1848 at Sutter's Mill, leading to a massive influx of settlers during the California Gold Rush.
- The Gold Rush boosted the U.S. economy and sped California’s path to statehood.
- The influx of settlers caused the California Genocide, with mass violence and displacement against Native Americans.
Texas War for Independence
- American settlers (Texians) moved illegally into Mexican Texas, often bringing slaves despite Mexican law.
- By 1835, Texians outnumbered Tejanos 10 to 1 and began pushing for independence.
- Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna became dictator of Mexico and acted harshly against the Texians.
- Key battles included the Alamo (Texan defeat and rallying cry) and Goliad Massacre (mass execution of Texan prisoners).
- Sam Houston led Texan forces to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, capturing Santa Anna and securing Texas independence.
- Texas became the Republic of Texas, legalized slavery, and requested U.S. annexation.
Political Developments and Expansionism
- Presidents Harrison (died after 31 days) and Tyler (who pushed for Texas annexation) were significant figures of this period.
- Tyler’s effort to annex Texas succeeded by passing a treaty resolution.
- The Creole slave ship revolt led to freed slaves in British Bahamas, creating a U.S.-UK diplomatic crisis.
- The presidential election of 1844 saw James K. Polk win with promises of expansion, lowered tariffs, and acquiring California.
- Polk settled the Oregon boundary with Britain at the 49th parallel and restored an independent treasury.
- Tensions with Mexico over Texas’ border led Congress to declare war against Mexico in 1846.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Manifest Destiny — the belief that U.S. expansion westward was justified and inevitable.
- Oregon Trail — major route used by pioneers migrating west.
- Texians — American settlers living in Mexican Texas.
- Tejanos — Mexican residents of Texas.
- The Alamo — site of a pivotal siege and battle in the Texas Revolution.
- Goliad Massacre — execution of Texan prisoners by Mexican forces.
- Republic of Texas — independent nation formed after winning independence from Mexico.
- Annexation — the act of adding territory to a country.
- California Gold Rush — a period of mass migration to California after gold was discovered.
- Polk’s Presidency — marked by territorial expansion and fulfillment of campaign promises.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the details and consequences of the U.S.-Mexican War for next lecture.
- Complete discussion board post relating to life on the Oregon Trail.
- Prepare for discussion on the impact of territorial expansion on slavery.