Expansionism

Definition

Expansionism is a policy or ideology that seeks to increase a nation's territory or influence through various means, including military conquest, colonization, and diplomatic agreements. This idea played a significant role in shaping the United States' territorial growth in the 19th century, reflecting the belief that it was America's destiny to expand across the continent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Expansionism in the United States was largely driven by economic interests, including the desire for new markets and resources.
2. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 was one of the first major acts of expansionism, doubling the size of the U.S. and opening up vast lands for settlement.
3. Expansionism led to conflicts with Native American tribes, as settlers encroached on their lands, leading to forced removals and violent confrontations.
4. The idea of 'Manifest Destiny' framed expansionism as a moral obligation for Americans, promoting the notion that they were bringing civilization to 'lesser' societies.
5. The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) was a direct result of expansionist policies, ultimately leading to significant territorial gains for the United States.

Review Questions

• How did economic factors influence expansionism in the United States during the 19th century?
  • Economic factors played a crucial role in shaping expansionism in the United States as the nation sought new markets and resources to fuel its growing economy. The desire for agricultural land pushed settlers westward, while industrial growth created a demand for raw materials. This pursuit of economic opportunity often justified territorial expansion and led to conflicts with Indigenous peoples who occupied these lands.
• Evaluate the impact of Manifest Destiny on U.S. foreign policy and relations with neighboring countries during the 19th century.
  • Manifest Destiny significantly shaped U.S. foreign policy by legitimizing territorial expansion as a national mission. This belief influenced diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, particularly Mexico, as seen in events like the Texas annexation and the Mexican-American War. The U.S. justified aggressive actions under this ideology, which not only altered boundaries but also affected international perceptions of American intentions.
• Assess how expansionism affected Native American communities and their resistance movements during the 19th century.
  • Expansionism had devastating effects on Native American communities as it led to widespread displacement and cultural disruption. As settlers moved westward, Indigenous populations faced violent confrontations and forced removals from their ancestral lands, resulting in significant loss of life and culture. Resistance movements emerged in response to these encroachments; however, many were met with overwhelming military force. This struggle highlighted the deep conflicts between the expansionist vision of the United States and the rights of Native peoples.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

A 19th-century belief that American settlers were destined to expand across North America, justifying territorial acquisition and the displacement of Native American tribes.

Territorial Acquisition: The process of gaining land or territory through various means, such as treaties, purchases, or military action.

Imperialism: A policy where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories, often through military force or diplomacy.