Unit 8: Manifest Destiny and Westward Expansion
This unit bundles the concept of American expansionism during the Manifest Destiny time period. In 7th grade, you learned about the U.S. Mexican War and the Texas Revolution. This year, prior to this unit, you learned about the Louisiana Purchase and Jackson’s treatment of the American Indians. During this unit you will learn about the government regulations for statehood and settlement within the Northwest Ordinance and the Homestead Act. You’ll also learn about the concept of Manifest Destiny, how the United States acquired new lands and the people that chose to settle them. Finally, we’ll learn about the U.S. Mexican War and the impact the war had on the U.S.
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:
What does the term Manifest Destiny mean, and why was it so important to the westward expansion of the United States? (8.8.2)
What were the major territorial acquisitions of the United States between 1803 and 1853, and how did they change the country’s boundaries? How did the United States achieve each territorial expansion: by purchase, by treaty, or by war? (8.4.1, 8.5.2)
Who fought in the Texas War for Independence and the Mexican- American War, and what were they fighting for? What effect did those wars have on U.S. boundaries? What was the wars’ effect on Americans and Mexicans living in the Southwest? How are the lives of Mexican Americans today affected by what happened in those wars? (8.8.6)
What were the effects of the Texas War for Independence and the Mexican-American War on Americans and Mexicans living in the Southwest? How are the lives of Mexican Americans today affected by what happened in those wars? (8.8.6)
What were the main features of the Mexican settlements? Discuss their location, food, architecture, music, economic pursuits, land ownership, laws, and attitudes toward slavery. How did these features contribute to the development of the West? (8.8.5)
What different paths did Americans in the West take in the period from 1800 to 1850, and what challenges did they face? Consider, for example, the Californios, the Mormons, the Forty-Niners, and the Chinese. (8.5.2, 8.8)
Why did Lewis and Clark make their journey? What challenges did they face? What were the possible economic outcomes of their expedition?(8.8.2)
STANDARDS:
DOWNLOADS:
As We begin this Unit be sure to download and complete the following:
SITUATION TEXAS
SITUATION MEXICO