Summary of Manifest DESTINY [APUSH Review Unit 5 Topic 2] Period 5: 1844-1877

Summary of "Manifest Destiny [APUSH Review Unit 5 Topic 2] Period 5: 1844-1877"

Main Ideas and Concepts:

• Westward Expansion:
  • Westward expansion was a significant driving force in American history from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century.
  • Initially focused on areas west of the Atlantic Coast, it included the Ohio River Valley and the Louisiana Purchase.
• Manifest Destiny:
  • Coined by journalist John O’Sullivan in July 1845, Manifest Destiny is the belief that Americans have a God-given right to expand across the continent from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans.
  • O’Sullivan emphasized that this expansion was ordained by Providence (God).
• Reasons for Westward Movement:
  • Economic Opportunities:
    • The discovery of gold in California in 1848 sparked the California Gold Rush, leading to a massive migration westward.
    • The Preemption Acts made land affordable for settlers, encouraging homesteading.
  • Religious Refuge:
    • Groups like the Mormons migrated to the Utah Territory seeking refuge from persecution, particularly due to their practices.
• Political Implications:
  • The election of James K. Polk in 1844 was significantly influenced by the idea of Manifest Destiny.
  • Polk aimed to annex Texas and Oregon, reflecting the national sentiment towards expansion.
• Texas and Oregon Territories:
  • Texas:
    • American settlers in Texas, originally part of Mexico, revolted against Mexican authority, leading to Texas declaring independence in 1836.
    • The annexation of Texas by the U.S. was contentious and led to tensions with Mexico.
  • Oregon:
    • Both the U.S. and Britain claimed the Oregon Territory, leading to negotiations that resulted in the territory being divided at the 49th parallel under Polk's administration.

Methodology/Instructions:

• Understand the significance of westward expansion and Manifest Destiny in shaping American history.
• Recognize key events and figures, such as:
  • John O’Sullivan and the term "Manifest Destiny."
  • James K. Polk's presidency and his expansionist policies.
  • The Texas Revolution and the Oregon dispute.
• Connect the economic, social, and political motivations behind the movement westward.

Featured Speakers/Sources:

• Heimler’s History (Presenter)
• John O’Sullivan (historical figure referenced)
• James K. Polk (historical figure referenced)
• Sam Houston (historical figure referenced)

Notable Quotes

— 00:08 — « And baby, in this video we about to manifest some destiny. »

— 01:23 — « The idea of Manifest Destiny is the notion that Americans have a God-given right to have a nation that extends from the Atlantic to the Pacific Oceans. »

— 01:55 — « People from the east rushed like mad to California to stake their claim and strike it rich. »

— 03:30 — « Texans be Texans and instead of submitting to Mexican authority, they went ahead and revolted against it under the leadership of Sam Houston and declared Texas to be an independent republic in 1836. »

— 06:06 — « Throw California in there too—it’s our destiny! »

Category

Educational

Video