Introduction

The period from 1790-1850 was a period of rapid expansion in the United States. New states were being added to the Union, including Alabama in 1819. Populations moved from rural farms to urban centers.

As you can imagine, this created tension and conflict in the United States as the struggle between nationalism and sectionalism began to take shape.

To see the vast changes that took place throughout this time period, check out this interactive map of US westward expansion from 1790 to 1850. PBS login information.

Lesson Objectives

Following successful completion of this lesson, students will be able to...

  • Summarize how nationalism influenced the federal courts, foreign affairs, and westward expansion in the first half of the 19th century
  • Discuss the influence of political parties on national government

Essential Questions

  • How did regional differences contribute to the growing conflict over states' rights versus federal power?

Enduring Understandings

  • American nationalism and the development of a uniquely American ideology influenced the court system, foreign affairs, and westward expansion. It shaped the identity of America in the first half of the 19th century.

The above objectives correspond with the Alabama Course of Study: United States History I standards: 5, 6, 9, 13.1, and 13.3.