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 and treaties were used to negotiate with American Indian nations. 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 historical figures and concepts 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 research path to follow. In that research path you will focus on three  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 these concepts, try to focus on the struggles and triumphs the individuals and groups faced. 

• Your final product will examine both the process and the results of Manifest Destiny. This is NOT a biography project.