People and Perspectives

As the American government purchased territories and settlers pushed further west to fulfill what they believed was their Manifest Destiny, conflicts began to arise between groups.

Presidents passed various laws to acquire more territory. The Louisiana Purchase of 1803, for example, was the largest territorial gain in the United States' history. As settlers and explorers moved into new territories, their increasing numbers meant that the native people living there sometimes had to move elsewhere. This led to many conflicts.

You will research the lives of real people who lived through the westward expansion period of American history. Use the list of individuals that we give you. If you are interested in studying other historical figures not listed on this website, let your teacher or librarian know!

You will select one politician, one American Indian, and one pioneer to answer our essential question. However, you must make sure to select one person from each of the three eras provided. 

While learning about the lives of these people, try to bear in mind the struggles and triumphs that their people as a whole faced. 

Your final product is examining the process and results of Manifest Destiny...This is NOT a biography project.