Why was the West attractive to so many settlers? Identify one positive effect and one negative effect of the westward movement.
(4 points)
Six sentences
The West was attractive to many settlers because it offered vast amounts of land for farming and agriculture, which presented new economic opportunities for those who could not afford land in the more established Eastern states. Additionally, the West was rich in natural resources such as gold, silver, and timber, which lured settlers searching for wealth and prosperity. Another factor that made the West appealing was the promise of freedom and independence, as settlers could establish their own communities without the constraints of established social hierarchies.
One positive effect of the westward movement was the expansion of American territory and the eventual development of the United States into a continental nation. The westward movement allowed for the growth of industry and trade, leading to economic prosperity for many settlers. It also contributed to a sense of national pride and identity as Americans conquered and settled new territories.
However, one negative effect of the westward movement was the displacement and mistreatment of Native American communities. As settlers moved into the West, Native Americans were often forced off their ancestral lands, leading to conflict, violence, and loss of life. The westward expansion also contributed to the erosion of Native American cultures and traditions, as they were forced to assimilate into the dominant American society.