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

Welcome to Unit 5 of AP U.S. History

Introduction to Westward Expansion

• The video introduces Unit 5 of the AP U.S. History curriculum, covering the period from 1844 to 1877, focusing on westward expansion and Manifest Destiny.

• Westward expansion was a significant driving force for Americans in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, initially moving beyond the Atlantic Coast and into territories like the Ohio River Valley.

Defining Manifest Destiny

• John O’Sullivan coined the term "Manifest Destiny" in July 1845, describing it as America's divine right to expand across the continent.

• O'Sullivan emphasized that this destiny was granted by Providence (God), asserting that Americans had a God-given right to occupy land from coast to coast.

Motivations for Westward Expansion

• Practical reasons for westward migration included access to natural resources, notably gold discovered in California in 1848, which sparked the California Gold Rush.

• Economic opportunities were enhanced by Congress's Preemption Acts during the 1830s and 1840s, making land affordable for homesteaders.

• Religious refuge also motivated migration; Mormons fled persecution and settled in Utah Territory, with around 70,000 migrating over two decades.

Political Implications of Manifest Destiny

• James K. Polk's election in 1844 marked a political embrace of Manifest Destiny; he sought territorial expansion into Texas and Oregon.

The Texas Situation

• American settlers began moving into Texas while it was still under Mexican control; by 1830, they outnumbered Mexicans three-to-one.

• Mexican laws required settlers to convert to Catholicism and prohibited slavery—requirements largely ignored by American immigrants.

Texan Independence Movement

• In response to oppressive governance from Mexico, Texans revolted under Sam Houston’s leadership and declared independence in 1836 after winning key battles like San Jacinto.

Aftermath of Independence Declaration

The Annexation of Texas and the Oregon Territory

Competing Claims to the Oregon Territory

• Both British and Americans claimed rights to the Oregon Territory, with Britain citing their established fur trade and longer settlement history.

• Americans argued for their claim based on a growing presence in the territory, driven by missionaries and farmers moving in greater numbers than the British.

James K. Polk's Election and Manifest Destiny

• The election of James K. Polk in 1844 was pivotal; he strongly believed in Manifest Destiny, advocating for the annexation of both Texas and Oregon. Should California be included as well? Yes! It's part of our destiny!

• Polk interpreted his election as a mandate from the people to expand U.S. territories, leading to significant political actions regarding Texas and Oregon.

Actions Taken Regarding Texas and Oregon

• John Tyler, preceding Polk, utilized his final months in office to push through Texas annexation before leaving office. This action would provoke tensions with Mexico.

• Polk's administration negotiated an agreement with Britain concerning Oregon, resulting in a treaty that divided the territory at the 49th parallel after Senate ratification.

Consequences of Annexation