Manifest Destiny: Coast to Coast — Reading Comprehension

The idea of Manifest Destiny was very important in American history. It meant that many people believed the United States should stretch from the Atlantic Ocean all the way to the Pacific Ocean. This belief gave people hope and a big goal. It started in the early 1800s, when the country was still young.

In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson made the Louisiana Purchase. The United States bought a huge piece of land from France. This doubled the size of the country. Then, President Jefferson sent Lewis and Clark to explore these new lands. They traveled all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Their journey helped others learn about the land and its people.

Many families wanted a better life. They packed their wagons and traveled west. The Oregon Trail was a long and hard path. People faced rivers, mountains, and tough weather. But their bravery helped the country grow. Towns and new states began to appear in the West.

Some people believed it was their duty to bring their way of life to new places. This idea was called Manifest Destiny. It gave people the courage to try new things. But moving west also caused problems. Native Americans lost their homes and lands. Some battles were fought. Still, many Americans saw this time as a way to build a strong, united country.

By the 1850s, the United States had grown from coast to coast. The dream of Manifest Destiny had come true. New railroads and towns showed the country's progress. People remembered the hard work and hope that helped America grow.

Interesting Fact: One wagon train could stretch for two miles along the Oregon Trail!

What did Manifest Destiny mean?

Who was President during the Louisiana Purchase?

Which trail led people west?

Why did families move west?

What was a result of going west?

Which group lost land?

Manifest Destiny helped the country grow. True or false?

What is a pioneer?