The Westward Expansion was Inevitable

Louisiana Purchase

1803

The Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States. This purchase showed how much land wasn’t discovered yet and created more places for people to live. Expansion was inevitable because more space was needed over time.

Manifest Destiny

1812

Manifest Destiny is the belief that the expansion of America was destined by God. This caused many people to encourage the expansion of the United States. This was another way the expansion was inevitable because so many people were for going westward as they believe it was their destiny.

Mass Production

1814

With the coming forth of the Textile Mill, mass production was brought to America. With the rise of these mills came further advancements such as factories. Many people moved from the countryside into the city during this. With the number of people in the cities and the ever growing population they were constantly overcrowded. This was one of the reasons the expansion was inevitable. As more people came in more space was need and hence the Westward expansion.

Spanish Cession of 1819

1819

The Spanish cession of 1819 granted access to the Mississippi River for the United States. This advanced the wealth of the country and improved trade. The Spanish Cession improved many aspects of living and therefore was essential for the United States. Expansion was essential for the wealth and well being of the country and therefore it was inevitable as time advanced.

The Erie Canal

1825

The Erie Canal was a form of transportation for many people. This allowed more people to move more freely and promoted expansion among citizens. With new ways of travel and transportation people could live further and still receive the goods they needed.

The Gold Rush

1848

The Gold Rush lived up to its name as many people rushed to California for Gold. Sadly many people never found much gold at all. Even though many people didn’t become rich by their findings, it encouraged moving westward and expanding as it showed how one could be lucky in other places.

Oregon Trail

1850

Many people went on the Oregon Trail in order to attain land. This caused many people to move westward and was another reason why expansion was inevitable. In many ways the expansion was appealing as it promised a better life for those who wanted it.