Westward Expansion
The movement of American settlers from the east coast to the west across North America.
What is it?
In the 1800s, many Americans moved west to find new land and opportunities. They traveled by wagon trains, on foot, and later by railroad. The U.S. government encouraged this expansion, sometimes forcing Native Americans off their lands. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is a symbol of this westward movement, as St. Louis was a starting point for many explorers and settlers.
Why it matters
Westward expansion shaped the United States into a country that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific. It also caused conflict and suffering for Native Americans. Understanding this history helps us understand America today.
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