key term - Natural and Mineral Resources

Definition

Natural and mineral resources refer to the raw materials found in the environment that are used for economic gain, including metals, minerals, forests, and water sources. In the context of expansionist policies, these resources fueled the desire for territorial acquisition and economic growth, which was central to the ideology of Manifest Destiny. The belief that Americans were destined to expand across the continent was driven by the pursuit of these resources, as they were seen as essential for progress and prosperity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The discovery of gold in California in 1848 triggered a massive influx of settlers and accelerated westward expansion as people sought wealth from natural resources.
2. The U.S. government promoted land grants and subsidies for railroads, further encouraging settlement and resource extraction in new territories.
3. Mining, agriculture, and logging were primary industries that developed in newly acquired lands due to abundant natural resources.
4. Manifest Destiny was not only about territorial expansion but also about harnessing the natural resources necessary for America's growing economy.
5. Conflicts arose with Native American tribes as settlers sought access to their lands rich in natural resources, leading to forced removals and significant cultural impacts.

Review Questions

• How did the quest for natural and mineral resources influence the ideology of Manifest Destiny?
  • The quest for natural and mineral resources was a driving force behind Manifest Destiny, as many Americans believed that expanding westward would provide access to wealth and opportunities. This ideology suggested that it was not only beneficial but also divinely ordained for Americans to claim these resources. The belief that these lands were necessary for America's prosperity motivated settlers to push further into territories rich in resources like gold, silver, and fertile land.
• In what ways did the Gold Rush exemplify the relationship between natural resources and westward expansion during this period?
  • The Gold Rush exemplified the relationship between natural resources and westward expansion by dramatically increasing migration to California, with people from various backgrounds seeking fortune. The promise of gold led to rapid settlement of previously uninhabited areas, resulting in towns emerging overnight. This rush not only fueled individual ambition but also contributed to national economic growth, showcasing how natural resources could transform societal landscapes.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of exploiting natural and mineral resources on both the environment and indigenous populations during westward expansion.
  • The exploitation of natural and mineral resources during westward expansion had profound long-term consequences on both the environment and indigenous populations. Environmental degradation occurred as mining practices polluted rivers, deforested vast areas, and disrupted local ecosystems. Additionally, indigenous populations faced displacement from their ancestral lands as settlers encroached upon territories rich in these resources. This led to significant cultural disruptions and loss of traditional ways of life, illustrating a complex legacy of progress paired with injustice.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and destiny of the United States to expand its territory across North America.

Gold Rush:

A period during the mid-19th century when thousands of people flocked to California in search of gold, significantly impacting settlement patterns and economic growth.

Industrialization:

The transition to a manufacturing-based economy that began in the late 18th century, driven by the exploitation of natural resources for production.