Chronological Reasoning and Causation
Does a canal only carry things you see?
Suggested Teaching Instructions
Driven by political and economic motives, the United States expanded its physical boundaries to the Pacific Ocean between 1800 and 1860. This settlement displaced Native Americans as the frontier was pushed westward. Westward expansion provided opportunities for some groups while harming others.
Students will examine the Erie Canal as a gateway to westward expansion that resulted in economic growth in New York State, economic opportunities for Irish immigrants working on its construction, and its use by religious groups, such as the Mormons, to move westward.