Heimler's History: U.S. Territorial Expansion in the Western Hemisphere

Overview:

Focus on U.S. government efforts to expand territory and influence in the Western Hemisphere.
Key objective: Explain the development and expansion of American foreign policy over time.

Treaty of Ghent (1814): Ended the war between the U.S. and Britain.
- Left several issues unresolved, especially regarding Canada.
James Monroe Presidency (1817):
- Sent John Quincy Adams to London to address territorial claims.
- 49th Parallel: Established as the border between the U.S. and Canada.
- Joint U.S.-British occupation of the Oregon Territory for 10 years.

Florida Territory: Owned by Spain, but poorly governed due to Spain's focus on South American rebellions.
Border issues: Seminole Indians, runaway slaves, and white settlers raiding U.S. territory.
Andrew Jackson's Mission (1817):
- Sent to protect the border, instructed not to engage with Spanish forces.
- Attacked Spanish forts and executed some influential figures, straining relations with Spain and Britain.
Adams-Onis Treaty (1819):
- Spain sold the Florida Territory to the U.S.
- Defined the border between U.S. and Spanish territories in the West.

Growing sentiment to reduce European involvement in the Western Hemisphere.
By 1822, several Latin American countries gained independence from European powers.
Monroe Doctrine (1823):
- Asserted U.S. influence over the Western Hemisphere, discouraging European intervention.
- Symbolically marked U.S. territorial claims and authority in the Americas.

Trade was a significant motivator for U.S. expansion.
By late 1820s:
- Thriving trade with Mexico, especially benefiting New England manufacturers.
- U.S. merchant ships expanded trade across the Pacific, notably in Chinese goods.
- Consideration of acquiring Pacific Islands like Hawaii and Samoa (future developments).