Westward expansion involved which of the following?

• A. Migration to the East Coast
• B. Territorial acquisitions beyond the Appalachian Mountains
• C. Restoration of native lands
• D. Reduction of federal land control

Answer: (B)

Westward expansion was fundamentally characterized by the migration of settlers and territorial acquisitions beyond the Appalachian Mountains. This phenomenon took place primarily during the 19th century and was driven by a variety of factors, including the belief in Manifest Destiny—the idea that Americans were destined to expand across the continent. Key events that illustrate this expansion include the Louisiana Purchase, the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Trail, and the California Gold Rush.

These acquisitions transformed the geographic and cultural landscape of the United States, facilitating the movement of settlers into new territories and the establishment of new states. This process often involved displacing Native American populations and led to significant conflict over land and resources.

This understanding of westward expansion as a movement into territories beyond the Appalachians highlights its crucial role in shaping the nation’s identity and borders, and distinguishes it from other options that do not accurately reflect the historical context of this period.