Westward Expansion (1837-1846)

The period of 1837-1846 saw significant changes in life in the West in the 1800s, marked by economic challenges and territorial expansion:

Definition: Pre-emption was a land policy allowing qualified individuals to purchase 160 acres of western land for $1.25 per acre.

The economic crash of 1837 drove many Americans westward in search of better opportunities. Territorial gains included:

• Texas from Mexico (1845)
• Oregon from Britain (1846)

Example: The Donner Party tragedy of 1846 illustrated the dangers of westward migration, with only half of an 80-person splinter group surviving the journey.

Plains Indian Social Structure

The tribal society of the Plains Indians featured a sophisticated organizational system based on bands and warrior societies. Each band was governed by chiefs and councils of advisors who made collective decisions for their people.

Definition: A band was a basic unit of Plains Indian social organization, consisting of extended family groups led by chiefs and elders.

Highlight: Warriors from each band formed specialized societies that protected their people and supervised important tribal activities.

The gender roles were clearly defined: men hunted and fought as braves, while women managed domestic affairs, including clothing production and tipi maintenance. Multiple bands within the same tribe supported each other and gathered annually for important social functions.

Example: Annual tribal meetings were held to arrange marriages, trade horses, and discuss communal issues.