Geographic and Economic Change Shape the Nation (1824-1865)

How did Westward Expansion change the lives of people who went west? How did it change the United States?

   Glossary   

Topic 1: Westward Expansion - Life in the West

This inquiry kit features Library of Congress sources that describe life on the trails during the Westward Expansion.

black and white illustration of a small city by a body of water


Topic 2: Chinese Immigrants on the Trans-Continental Railroad

This inquiry kit features Library of Congress sources that examine the role and impact of Chinese immigrants during the Westward Expansion.

a posed black and white photo of the team holding a hose


Topic 3: Outlaws of the West

This inquiry kit features Library of Congress sources and examines the impact of outlaws during the Westward Expansion.

full newspaper spread showing the article from 1899 with illustrations


Topic 4: Life of Tejanos/Texans of Mexican Heritage

This inquiry kit features Library of Congress sources and focuses upon the lives of Tejanos during the Westward Expansion.

black and white photo of dancers dancing in the street


Topic 5: The Pony Express

This inquiry kit features Library of Congress sources that highlight the impact of the Pony Express on communication during the period of Westward Expansion.

a color hand-drawn image of the Pony Express route