Western Expansion

Definition

The movement of settlers and the spread of American influence from the eastern part of the United States to the western territories during the 19th century.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny: The belief that it was America's destiny to expand its territory from coast to coast.

Homestead Act: A law passed in 1862 that provided free land in the West to people willing to settle and develop it.

Transcontinental Railroad: A railway line that connected the eastern and western coasts of the United States, facilitating easier travel and trade between regions.