Unit 2A: Westward Expansion (1800-1840s)
How did America change from 13 states clustered on the east coast to a vast nation spreading coast to coast? We are going to spend a few days understanding why Americans moved West during the 1800s, including the deeply held beliefs that brought Americans west - American Exceptionalism and Manifest Destiny. We will discuss the conflicts between Americans and with other nations about whether we should move west, along with how we ultimately obtained the land. In addition, we will examine the changes in technology, economics, and politics that ushered in the modern age.
Links/review guide:
Review guide is included in next unit - the Gilded Age
Extra resources:
American Exceptionalism in a Time of American Malaise
BBC (2/3/16)