The U.S. was interested in exploring land west of its boundaries for several reasons, including the desire for economic expansion, access to Natural Resources, and the belief in Manifest Destiny—the idea that Americans were destined to expand across the continent. This exploration was driven by the potential for agricultural development, trade routes, and the establishment of new settlements. Additionally, the government aimed to assert control over the territory and prevent European powers from gaining influence in North America. These motivations fueled westward exploration and settlement throughout the 19th century.
Trappers and mountain men were instrumental in exploring and settling the land west of the Mississippi. They had survival skills, and taught them to the new inhabitants of the Wild West.
Congress passed the Land Ordinance of 1785 because there was a need to discern how to divide the land that was acquired during the Revolutionary War. The British that had already settled west of the Ohio River had to move to let the Americans have the land.
The Spanish went from the southeast to the west coast exploring North America.
the west was offering land to the settlers
The Homestead Act promised free land to those who would settle in the West.
the bounderies are north,south,east,and west
Europe on the west, Africa on the southwest, Australia on the south, and North America on the east.
During the Age of Exploration, countries like Spain, Portugal, France, and England were particularly interested in exploring the West. They sought new trade routes to access valuable resources such as gold, spices, and silk, while also aiming to spread Christianity. Additionally, the competition for territorial expansion and the desire to enhance national prestige drove these nations to explore uncharted territories.
Trappers and mountain men were instrumental in exploring and settling the land west of the Mississippi. They had survival skills, and taught them to the new inhabitants of the Wild West.
Because the land was advertised to be free. Also, they were interested in getting started on a carte blanche, away from the crowded areas with traditional stress etc.
Leif Eriksson's interest in exploring a new land was sparked when he heard about the discovery of a new region to the west of Greenland by Bjarni Herjolfsson. This news intrigued Leif and led him to organize an expedition to find this new land, resulting in his discovery of Vinland (believed to be present-day Newfoundland in Canada).
Leif Ericson's motivation for exploring was driven by a desire to seek new lands for settlement, trade, and further expansion of his community. He was also likely influenced by stories of other Norse explorers and the potential for wealth and resources in undiscovered territories.
The Lewis and Clark expeditions were vital for exploring the land the country had just purchased. No one was willing to settle out west until the land had been surveyed for potential dangers.
China was Traditionally not interested in trading with the west because it was self-sufficient.
China was Traditionally not interested in trading with the west because it was self-sufficient.
Baile an Iar means West Town / Town of the West
Jefferson's main concern in exploring the new territory was to gather scientific knowledge and establish a clearer understanding of the land's geography, natural resources, and indigenous peoples. He aimed to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean that would facilitate trade and expansion. Additionally, Jefferson was interested in promoting American settlement and ensuring that the United States could secure its interests in the West, fostering a sense of national identity and growth.