 Just think: What does destiny mean?  Today, I will be able to explain the concept of Manifest Destiny and how that led to conflict.  Homework:  You will have your test on Wednesday. Your test will be on the readings from chapters 12 and 13 only.  You will not be permitted to use your notes.  You will be permitted use one 3”x 5” note card.  Information on the note card must be handwritten and not shared with others.  You must have your name on the card and turn it in with your test.

 Americans were invited to Texas in order to settle the land and control the Comanche population  Spain lost control of Mexico in  Texas population takes off and Mexico (1830) is fearful that there are too many Texans and impose the “hated laws.” Texans refused to follow the laws.  Santa Anna takes over in 1833; Austin is imprisoned the same year.  Austin is released from prison in 1835; fighting breaks out.  Texans win at the Battle of San Jacinto and gain their independence.

 As early as 1836, Texas wanted to join the U.S.A.  In 1837, Texas formally asks to join, and Van Buren (NY) says ‘no.’ Their admission would cause problems because they’re a slave state.  Tyler (VA) wants to bring Texas into the Union b/c he’s pro slavery; however, virtually everyone hates Tyler so that doesn’t happen.  Polk becomes President and as part of his Manifest Destiny platform Texas is admitted to the Union.

Major westward population shift. The population vote was close, but not the electoral

 In the 1840s, we had an inflated sense of self- worth regarding our style of government and felt that it was our duty to expand that ideology throughout the world.  Some Americans felt that their culture was superior to that of Natives and Mexicans.  James K. Polk ran for President on an expansionist platform: “Fifty-four forty or fight,” regarding Oregon Territory.

 Song 1 Song 1  Song 2 Song 2