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Zainab
21/07/2025
History
The Making of America 1789-1900
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21 Jul 2025
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The Making of America 1789-1900: GCSE History OCR B Questions and Answers
Zainab
@zainab_02839
Expansion into the American West, 1839-60
The period from 1839 to 1860 saw a dramatic shift in American attitudes towards the West, transforming it from a perceived desert to a land of opportunity. This expansion had significant impacts on Native American tribes and the nation's economic and political landscape.
Definition: Nomadic lifestyle - a way of life in which a group of people moves from place to place rather than settling in one location.
The Plains Indians, particularly the Sioux and Cheyenne, adapted their way of life to the challenging environment of the Great Plains:
- The introduction of horses by the Spanish enabled tribes to adopt a nomadic lifestyle.
- Buffalo hunting became central to their culture and survival.
- Tribal leadership and social structures were organized around this nomadic way of life.
Highlight: The Sioux dominated the Plains from the 1820s to 1860s, displacing other tribes like the Crow and Arapaho.
The expansion into the West was driven by several factors:
- Changing perceptions of the land's value and habitability
- Economic opportunities, particularly in fur trading
- Territorial acquisitions from European powers and Mexico
This westward movement set the stage for future conflicts between white settlers and Native American tribes, as well as debates over the expansion of slavery into new territories.
Vocabulary: Nomadically - relating to a way of life that involves moving from place to place rather than living in one location permanently.
The chapter emphasizes the rapid transformation of the American West from a sparsely populated region to an area of intense interest and settlement. This shift would have profound implications for the nation's future development and its relationships with indigenous peoples.
Expansion into the American West (1839-60)
The period marked significant territorial expansion beyond the Mississippi River, transforming perceptions of the American West from an inhospitable desert to desirable settlement land.
Vocabulary: Plains Indians - Native American tribes who adapted to life on the Great Plains, developing a nomadic lifestyle centered around buffalo hunting.
Highlight: The introduction of horses by Spanish colonizers revolutionized Plains Indian culture, enabling tribes like the Sioux and Cheyenne to develop their nomadic lifestyle.
Civil War and Reconstruction (1861-1877)
The American Civil War represented a pivotal moment in the Making of America timeline, fundamentally reshaping the nation's social and political landscape.
Quote: "The Civil War and Reconstruction period were like a second birth for the American nation."
Highlight: Northern industrial growth created political tensions with the South, particularly regarding the expansion of slavery and economic competition.
Conflict in the West (1861-1877)
The western expansion during the Civil War era was facilitated by significant legislative initiatives, particularly the Homestead Act and Pacific Railroad Act.
Definition: The Homestead Act provided Americans the opportunity to claim western land ownership through sustained settlement and cultivation.
Example: The challenges of Plains settlement included limited building materials, harsh climate, and water scarcity, yet offered unprecedented opportunities for women and African Americans.
America Begins to Grow, 1789-1838
The early years of the United States were marked by rapid expansion and the establishment of national identity. This period saw significant growth in territory, population, and economic power, particularly in the cotton industry.
Highlight: The USA expanded quickly in the Northwest and South between 1789 and 1838, driven by fears of European empires and the desire for land ownership.
The expansion of the United States during this period had profound effects on various groups:
- Native Americans faced displacement and conflict as settlers moved westward.
- The demand for slave labor increased with the growth of cotton plantations in the South.
- Regional differences between the North and South began to emerge, setting the stage for future conflicts.
Vocabulary: Self-sufficient - able to provide for one's own needs without external assistance.
The cotton industry became a driving force in the American economy, particularly in the South. This led to:
- Increased demand for slave labor
- Implementation of harsh working conditions, such as the "pushing system"
- Growing economic disparities between North and South
Example: By 1840, the USA had become the world's largest producer of cotton, leading to a fall in cotton prices and increased pressure on slave labor.
The treatment of Native American tribes during this period was characterized by forced relocation and broken promises:
- Some tribes, like the Cherokee, attempted to assimilate into white American culture.
- The Indian Removal Act of 1830 forced many tribes to move westward.
- Resistance from tribes like the Creek and Seminole was ultimately unsuccessful.
Quote: "By 1838, almost all land in the South was open for white settlers."
This chapter highlights the complex interplay between economic growth, territorial expansion, and the treatment of marginalized groups in early American history.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The Making of America 1789-1900: GCSE History OCR B Questions and Answers
Zainab
@zainab_02839
The Making of America(1789-1900) chronicles the transformation of a fledgling nation into a global power, exploring key themes of expansion, slavery, civil conflict, and national identity. This comprehensive overview examines the nation's growth from its initial 13 states to... Show more
Expansion into the American West, 1839-60
The period from 1839 to 1860 saw a dramatic shift in American attitudes towards the West, transforming it from a perceived desert to a land of opportunity. This expansion had significant impacts on Native American tribes and the nation's economic and political landscape.
Definition: Nomadic lifestyle - a way of life in which a group of people moves from place to place rather than settling in one location.
The Plains Indians, particularly the Sioux and Cheyenne, adapted their way of life to the challenging environment of the Great Plains:
- The introduction of horses by the Spanish enabled tribes to adopt a nomadic lifestyle.
- Buffalo hunting became central to their culture and survival.
- Tribal leadership and social structures were organized around this nomadic way of life.
Highlight: The Sioux dominated the Plains from the 1820s to 1860s, displacing other tribes like the Crow and Arapaho.
The expansion into the West was driven by several factors:
- Changing perceptions of the land's value and habitability
- Economic opportunities, particularly in fur trading
- Territorial acquisitions from European powers and Mexico
This westward movement set the stage for future conflicts between white settlers and Native American tribes, as well as debates over the expansion of slavery into new territories.
Vocabulary: Nomadically - relating to a way of life that involves moving from place to place rather than living in one location permanently.
The chapter emphasizes the rapid transformation of the American West from a sparsely populated region to an area of intense interest and settlement. This shift would have profound implications for the nation's future development and its relationships with indigenous peoples.
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Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Expansion into the American West (1839-60)
The period marked significant territorial expansion beyond the Mississippi River, transforming perceptions of the American West from an inhospitable desert to desirable settlement land.
Vocabulary: Plains Indians - Native American tribes who adapted to life on the Great Plains, developing a nomadic lifestyle centered around buffalo hunting.
Highlight: The introduction of horses by Spanish colonizers revolutionized Plains Indian culture, enabling tribes like the Sioux and Cheyenne to develop their nomadic lifestyle.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Civil War and Reconstruction (1861-1877)
The American Civil War represented a pivotal moment in the Making of America timeline, fundamentally reshaping the nation's social and political landscape.
Quote: "The Civil War and Reconstruction period were like a second birth for the American nation."
Highlight: Northern industrial growth created political tensions with the South, particularly regarding the expansion of slavery and economic competition.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Conflict in the West (1861-1877)
The western expansion during the Civil War era was facilitated by significant legislative initiatives, particularly the Homestead Act and Pacific Railroad Act.
Definition: The Homestead Act provided Americans the opportunity to claim western land ownership through sustained settlement and cultivation.
Example: The challenges of Plains settlement included limited building materials, harsh climate, and water scarcity, yet offered unprecedented opportunities for women and African Americans.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
America Begins to Grow, 1789-1838
The early years of the United States were marked by rapid expansion and the establishment of national identity. This period saw significant growth in territory, population, and economic power, particularly in the cotton industry.
Highlight: The USA expanded quickly in the Northwest and South between 1789 and 1838, driven by fears of European empires and the desire for land ownership.
The expansion of the United States during this period had profound effects on various groups:
- Native Americans faced displacement and conflict as settlers moved westward.
- The demand for slave labor increased with the growth of cotton plantations in the South.
- Regional differences between the North and South began to emerge, setting the stage for future conflicts.
Vocabulary: Self-sufficient - able to provide for one's own needs without external assistance.
The cotton industry became a driving force in the American economy, particularly in the South. This led to:
- Increased demand for slave labor
- Implementation of harsh working conditions, such as the "pushing system"
- Growing economic disparities between North and South
Example: By 1840, the USA had become the world's largest producer of cotton, leading to a fall in cotton prices and increased pressure on slave labor.
The treatment of Native American tribes during this period was characterized by forced relocation and broken promises:
- Some tribes, like the Cherokee, attempted to assimilate into white American culture.
- The Indian Removal Act of 1830 forced many tribes to move westward.
- Resistance from tribes like the Creek and Seminole was ultimately unsuccessful.
Quote: "By 1838, almost all land in the South was open for white settlers."
This chapter highlights the complex interplay between economic growth, territorial expansion, and the treatment of marginalized groups in early American history.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user