American west

Definition

The American West refers to the vast region of the western United States characterized by its diverse geography, including mountains, plains, deserts, and forests. This area became a focal point during the 19th century as the nation expanded westward, driven by a belief in Manifest Destiny, which promoted the idea that Americans were destined to expand across the continent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of the American West was heavily romanticized in literature and art, often depicting rugged individualism and the spirit of adventure.
2. The westward expansion led to significant conflicts with Native American tribes, resulting in forced relocations and loss of ancestral lands.
3. The Gold Rush of 1849 drew thousands of people to the West in search of wealth, significantly accelerating settlement and development in the region.
4. Railroads played a crucial role in the development of the American West, facilitating transportation and commerce while also contributing to the displacement of Native Americans.
5. By the end of the 19th century, much of the American West had been settled, leading to the establishment of new states and transforming the economic landscape.

Review Questions

• How did the belief in Manifest Destiny influence attitudes and actions towards the American West?
  • Manifest Destiny fueled a sense of entitlement among Americans to expand their territory across the continent. This belief led to policies that encouraged westward migration, often at the expense of Native American populations. As settlers moved into these lands, they justified their actions through the lens of destiny, which contributed to both settlement and conflict as cultures clashed over land ownership and resources.
• Evaluate the impact of the Homestead Act on westward expansion and its long-term effects on American society.
  • The Homestead Act had a profound impact on westward expansion by providing accessible land to millions of settlers for a small fee. This law incentivized families to move westward in search of new opportunities, drastically increasing population density in these areas. In the long term, it contributed to changes in agricultural practices and settlement patterns while also exacerbating tensions with Native Americans whose lands were being claimed.
• Analyze how railroads transformed economic activities in the American West and their broader implications for American society.
  • Railroads were instrumental in transforming the American West economically by connecting remote areas with eastern markets, facilitating trade and commerce. They enabled faster movement of people and goods, which accelerated settlement and industrial growth. However, this expansion often came at a high cost for Native American communities, leading to displacement and cultural disruptions. The railroads also played a critical role in shaping a national identity tied to progress and expansion during this period.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that justified American expansion across the North American continent as a divine right and destiny.

Homestead Act:

A law passed in 1862 that granted 160 acres of public land to settlers for a small fee, encouraging westward migration and settlement.

Frontier: The advancing border of settlement in the American West, often associated with opportunities for land ownership and new beginnings.