AP U.S. History Flashcards: Manifest Destiny
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
What was a major consequence of advocates acting on the idea of Manifest Destiny?
The westward expansion driven by Manifest Destiny frequently provoked competition over land and resources, leading to violent conflict.
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What was a major consequence of advocates acting on the idea of Manifest Destiny?
The westward expansion driven by Manifest Destiny frequently provoked competition over land and resources, leading to violent conflict.
The construction of the Transcontinental Railroad was supported by government legislation. How did this affect westward expansion?
This is an example of new legislation promoting western transportation, which boosted migration and economic development in the West during and after the Civil War.
A prospector moves to California in 1849. Which specific cause of westward expansion does this exemplify?
This exemplifies the desire for access to natural and mineral resources as a driver of westward migration.
What ideological belief was used to justify U.S. expansion to the Pacific?
Advocates used the idea of the superiority of American institutions to argue that the United States was compelled to expand its borders.
What were the dual outcomes of westward expansion from 1844 to 1877?
Westward expansion led to increased migration and settlement, but it also caused frequent competition and violent conflict.
What was Manifest Destiny?
It was the belief that the United States was compelled to expand its borders westward to the Pacific Ocean, justified by the supposed superiority of American institutions.
How did the U.S. government encourage westward migration during and after the Civil War?
The government passed new legislation that promoted the development of western transportation and the economy, which boosted migration.
Besides resources and economic gain, what was another key reason for settlement in the West?
The hope for religious refuge was another significant reason that led to migration and settlement in the West.
How did westward expansion to the Pacific Ocean influence U.S. foreign policy?
U.S. interest in expanding trade led to economic, diplomatic, and cultural initiatives to create more ties with Asia.
What were the primary motivations for increased migration and settlement in the West?
The main drivers were the desire for access to natural and mineral resources, the hope for economic opportunities, and the search for religious refuge.
Identify the key time period for the causes and effects of westward expansion discussed in the content.
The key period for this phase of westward expansion is from 1844 to 1877.
