The Westward Expansion period refers to the time in United States history from the early 1800s to the late 1800s when settlers moved westward across North America, expanding the boundaries of the country.
Related terms
Manifest Destiny: The belief during the Westward Expansion that it was America's destiny to expand its territory from coast to coast.
Louisiana Purchase: The acquisition of a large tract of land from France in 1803, which greatly contributed to westward expansion.
Oregon Trail: A famous route used by pioneers during the mid-1800s for traveling westward towards Oregon.