“The Opening of the West” Chapter 7 “The Opening of the West”

Section 1: Westward Movement Essential Question: What factors led Americans and immigrants to move and settle in the West?

Manifest Destiny Manifest Destiny was the belief that Americans should expand their land and spread their beliefs and ideals. Westward movement caused federal government to continue relocating Indians to the “Great American Desert”.

U.S. Territorial Expansion

Impressions of Indian Territory Indian Territory (later Oklahoma) was viewed as poor land for settlement. Not suitable for farming.

Section 2: Crossing the Territory Essential Question: What were the best methods of travel for settlers moving West?

Trailblazing Many trails began as animal paths, or old Indian trails. Spanish priests, traders, and trappers followed the old Spanish trail. Trails to the west were rugged and dangerous, but took half the time of ship travel (6 months vs. 1 year).

Early Trails

The Santa Fe Trail The Santa Fe trail began in Independence, MO. Cimarron Route went through the Oklahoma Panhandle. 1821: William Becknell led the first wagon train on the trail.

Texas Road Osage Trace, becomes the Texas Road. Stations located along it for stage coaches and other travelers.

The California Road From Fort Smith, AR across Oklahoma toward Santa Fe, NM. Trail becomes known as the California Road. Early gold mining trail. Travel was 4-15 miles/day.

Traveling the Trails Trails through Indian territory, handled about 25,000 a year. The Prairie Traveler by Capt. Marcy recommended routes, supplies, wagons, and animals need for a successful migration. Marcy establishes Fort Arbuckle (near Davis) to protect immigrants.

Railroad Surveys Surveys were made to determine the best route. Surveys along the 35th parallel provide much information about life in the area in the 1850s. Southern route not chosen, in the end, due to the Civil War and the push for a more northerly route.

Butterfield Stage Company The Butterfield Stage had a route across Oklahoma, entering at Ft. Smith, and traveling to the Red River. Stations located along the way had fresh horses and refreshed travelers. It took 4 days to go from St. Louis, MO to Sherman, TX or to San Francisco in 25 days. The Pony Express increased the speed. The Civil War delayed expansion of stage coach route development.