Manifest Destiny -theory that the US should expand across the continent Louisiana Purchase – doubled the size of U.S. War of 1812 – Caused skirmishes with British equipped Native Americans Lure of the West – land, gold, adventure… 250,000+ ppl 1840-1860

Mormons -religious group founded by Joseph Smith , 1827 **Mormons played MJR role in settling WEST. **Church of Latter Day Saints -Smith was killed by a mob denouncing his views -while in jail for treason (1844) -Brigham Young led the group west to Utah, 1847 -away from persecution -Communal living: gave plots of land to each family -formed a thriving community – Salt Lake City (1847)desert

-immigrants from U.S. move into Mexican Texas to help defend Disclaimer: Americans had to become Mexican citizens, Roman Catholic and accept constitution (banned slavery) Many ignored agreement. Stephen F. Austin leads the settlers “FATHER OF TEXAS” established the first Anglo-American colony in the Tejas province of Mexico and helped it grow into an independent republic. -Mexico tries to regain control of Texas -Mexico feared a plot by the U.S. to acquire Texas -Santa Anna becomes Mexican leader- controlling (“Napoleon of the West”  Mexican leader and 11 X president who greatly influenced early Mexican and Spanish politics and government.

Texans defeated, all were killed Texas -Battle of the Alamo, 1836 Texans defeated, all were killed -”Remember the Alamo” -Texans eventually defeat Mexican Army and declare independence -Battle of San Jacinto- led by Santa Anna. cruel during battle inspired many ppl (TX and adventures) to join the Texan Army. Texans defeat the Mex Army 1836, ending the revolution. -1836, Lone Star Republic-Jackson recognizes TX Sam Houston serves as President of Texas David "Davy" Crockett – frontiersman, soldier and politician. "King of the Wild Frontier". TN in the HoR Major role on TX Revolution Died at Battle of the Alamo http://www.history.com/topics/mexican-american-war/videos#the-alamo

Western Lands -Laramie Treaty: . US and Indians. Guaranteed safe travels for settlers along Oregon Trail in return for promises of $50,000 for 50 yrs. The NA nations also allowed roads and forts to be built in their territories. Oregon Territory – explored on the basis of Manifest Destiny Oregon Trail – most popular trail for settlers to take Donner Party – resulted to cannibalism after getting stuck in Rockies -“54-40 or Fight” – border Polk wanted w/ Canada--Polk promised U.S to gain Britain's Oregon territory -election of 1844- POLK wins

Frémont Pass, 7,088 feet (2,160 m) high, became blocked in the early days of November 1846. It is now called Donner Pass, here in the 1870s.

-Texas finally annexed in 1845 -promise of newly elected Polk Mexican War US v MX: 1846-1848 -Texas finally annexed in 1845 -promise of newly elected Polk -border dispute arises with Mexico -Polk sends troops 3000+ -war breaks out after border skirmish General Zachary Taylor- Head of forces General Winfield Scott ( BOTH great generals!) http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-3445_162-57582787/americas-forgotten-war-south-of-the-border/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjUEBDOOSDM worksheet

Mexican War -Mexico defeated - U.S. won every major battle -Mexican cessation (end/close) of lands in the west 1848 California, Nevada, NM, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming

Spoils of War -Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo – ends war w/ Mexico (1848) -Mexican cessation – western states -Gadsden Purchase – the southern parts of Arizona and New Mexico – draws Mexico/U.S. border -Zach Taylor elected President -California Gold Rush Gold found in 1848 at Sutter’s Mill 1849 Gold Rush-49ers