7.6 - Westward Expansion

Seventh Grade - Seventh Social Studies - 7.6 - Westward Expansion

From EngageNY

Driven by political and economic motives, the United States expanded its physical boundaries to the Pacific Ocean between 1800 and 1860. This settlement displaced Native Americans as the frontier was pushed westward.

7.6a Conflict and compromise with foreign nations occurred regarding the physical expansion of the United States during the 19th century. American values and beliefs, such as Manifest Destiny and the need for resources, increased westward expansion and settlement.

• Students will compare and evaluate the ways in which Florida, Texas, and territories from the Mexican Cession were acquired by the United States.

7.6b Westward expansion provided opportunities for some groups while harming others.

• Students will examine the Erie Canal as a gateway to westward expansion that resulted in economic growth for New York State, economic opportunities for Irish immigrants working on its construction, and its use by religious groups, such as the Mormons, to move westward.
• Students will examine the growth of suffrage for white men during Andrew Jackson’s administration.
• Students will examine the conditions faced on the Trail of Tears by the Cherokee and the effect that the removal had on their people and culture.
• Students will examine examples of Native American resistance to western encroachment, including the Seminole Wars and Cherokee judicial efforts.
• Students will examine the ways westward movement affected the lives of women and African Americans.
• Students will examine the policies of New York State toward Native Americans at this time.