What Is The Expansion Of Westward Expansion

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Recommended: “Manifest Destiny ”, John O’Sullivan

The central theme of American history has often been thought to be the Westward Expansion and it 's crucial role in shaping this great country into what it is today. Following the revolution and achieving Independence, settlers flowed into the western country, a land full of mountains, deserts, and unimaginable amount of opportunity. By 1840, there had been ten new states added to the Federal Union including California, Texas, and Kansas. As a result, a whole new territory had been colonized, leaving a lasting effect on the American ways of living. Although, none of this would have been made possible without the annexation of these states. However this new development sparked intense debates among the American population as to whether these …show more content…

In 1845, journalist John O 'Sullivan coined the term Manifest Destiny, which described Americas sudden urge to extend its boundaries from coast to coast. The expansionists developed continental ambition. Mexico feared that America would eventually move in and take over all their land, which as a result ruined all ties with Mexico. Over time, the western territory became the destination of bored city folk who longed for the farming life. During the 1840 's and the 1850 's, thousands of white Americans, some of which slave owners, moved onto small farms in Texas and Arkansas. Their aspirations were simple: to achieve modest prosperity during their lives and to assist their children to own farms of their own. Meanwhile, ranchers soon linked California to the American economy. Merchants in New England sent agents to purchase leather for the growing shoe industries of the East coast. Many agents married the daughters of elite Mexican ranchers, also known as the Californios. Later, President Polk, aware that it might cause a war with Mexico, issued the Expansionist Program in which he encouraged the Californios to seek independence and union with the U.S. In other words, if the Californios did not side with America, they would no longer be welcome among

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