Manifest Destiny and Its Legacy: APUSH Chapter 17 Summary (1841-1848)... Show more
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7/15/2025
AP US History
APUSH | Chapter 17: Manifest Destiny and Its Legacy Notes
113
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Jul 15, 2025
•
APUSH Chapter 17: Manifest Destiny Notes PDF, Quizlet, and Answers - John Tyler and Chapter 18 American Pageant
The Lone Star of Texas Shines Alone
This section covers the complex issue of Texas annexation and its impact on U.S. politics.
The Belated Texas Nuptials
Texas annexation became a major political issue in the 1844 presidential campaign:
- Democrats supported expansion, while Whigs opposed annexation
- President Tyler arranged a joint resolution for annexation
- Texas was formally invited to join the Union in 1845
Definition: Manifest Destiny was the belief that American settlers were destined to expand across North America, which greatly influenced expansionist Democrats.
Oregon Fever Populates Oregon
The Oregon Country was claimed by multiple nations:
- Spain and Russia eventually backed out of their claims
- Britain and the United States had strong competing claims
- By 1845, only a small segment of Oregon was still in dispute
A Mandate for Manifest Destiny
The 1844 presidential election centered on expansion:
- James K. Polk was chosen as the Democratic candidate
- Henry Clay represented the Whigs
- Polk's victory was seen as a mandate for Manifest Destiny
Example: Polk's goals included lowering tariffs, acquiring California, and settling the Oregon dispute.
Polk the Purposeful
James K. Polk's presidency was marked by a clear expansionist agenda:
- He sought to lower tariffs, resulting in the Walker Tariff of 1846
- He aimed to settle the Oregon boundary dispute at the 49th parallel
- Acquiring California became a major objective
Misunderstandings with Mexico
This section details the deteriorating relations between the United States and Mexico, leading to war.
American Blood on American Soil
Tensions with Mexico escalated due to the Texas annexation and U.S. desire for California:
- Polk sent John Slidell to Mexico City in 1845 to negotiate the purchase of California
- Mexico refused to hear the proposal
- Polk ordered troops to the Rio Grande, leading to a Mexican attack on April 25, 1846
Quote: Polk declared that "American blood has been shed on American soil," using this as justification for war.
The Mastering of Mexico
The Mexican-American War unfolded with several key events:
- The short-lived California Bear Flag Republic in 1846
- American victories at Buena Vista and Mexico City
Fighting Mexico for Peace
The war concluded with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848:
- Confirmed American title to Texas
- Yielded California and the Southwest to the U.S.
- The U.S. paid $15 million and assumed claims against Mexico
Highlight: The Mexican-American War satisfied the concept of Manifest Destiny but also resurfaced the issue of slavery expansion, leading to the controversial Wilmot Proviso.
Profit and Loss in Mexico
The war had significant consequences:
- Fulfilled the vision of Manifest Destiny
- Provided military experience for future Civil War officers
- Damaged relations between the U.S. and Latin America
- Intensified debates over slavery expansion in new territories
The Accession of "Tyler Too"
This section discusses John Tyler's unexpected rise to the presidency and his conflicts with the Whig Party.
John Tyler: A President Without a Party
John Tyler became president in 1841 after William Henry Harrison's death, just four weeks into his term. Despite being elected as a Whig, Tyler's Democratic leanings caused significant friction with his party.
Highlight: Tyler vetoed two Whig-sponsored bills to establish a new Bank of the United States, leading to his expulsion from the Whig party and the resignation of most of his cabinet.
Financial Reform and Party Conflict
Tyler's presidency was marked by conflicts over financial policy:
- He ended the independent treasury system
- Vetoed Whig attempts to create a new national bank
- Initially vetoed a Whig tariff proposal
- Eventually signed the more moderate Tariff of 1842
A War of Words with Britain
This period saw increased tensions between the United States and Britain:
- Anti-British sentiment was high due to bitter memories of past wars
- The Caroline incident of 1837 and the Creole affair in 1841 further strained relations
- These conflicts were dubbed the "Third War with England," fought with "paper and ink"
Vocabulary: The Aroostook War refers to a bloodless confrontation between the United States and Britain over the Maine-New Brunswick border.
Manipulating the Maine Maps
The boundary dispute between Maine and Canada led to the Aroostook War. Lord Ashburton and Daniel Webster negotiated a compromise on the Maine boundary, helping to ease tensions between the two nations.
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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
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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
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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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
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Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
APUSH Chapter 17: Manifest Destiny Notes PDF, Quizlet, and Answers - John Tyler and Chapter 18 American Pageant
Manifest Destiny and Its Legacy: APUSH Chapter 17 Summary (1841-1848)
This chapter covers the period of American expansion known as Manifest Destiny, focusing on key events from 1841 to 1848. It details the presidencies of John Tyler and James... Show more
The Lone Star of Texas Shines Alone
This section covers the complex issue of Texas annexation and its impact on U.S. politics.
The Belated Texas Nuptials
Texas annexation became a major political issue in the 1844 presidential campaign:
- Democrats supported expansion, while Whigs opposed annexation
- President Tyler arranged a joint resolution for annexation
- Texas was formally invited to join the Union in 1845
Definition: Manifest Destiny was the belief that American settlers were destined to expand across North America, which greatly influenced expansionist Democrats.
Oregon Fever Populates Oregon
The Oregon Country was claimed by multiple nations:
- Spain and Russia eventually backed out of their claims
- Britain and the United States had strong competing claims
- By 1845, only a small segment of Oregon was still in dispute
A Mandate for Manifest Destiny
The 1844 presidential election centered on expansion:
- James K. Polk was chosen as the Democratic candidate
- Henry Clay represented the Whigs
- Polk's victory was seen as a mandate for Manifest Destiny
Example: Polk's goals included lowering tariffs, acquiring California, and settling the Oregon dispute.
Polk the Purposeful
James K. Polk's presidency was marked by a clear expansionist agenda:
- He sought to lower tariffs, resulting in the Walker Tariff of 1846
- He aimed to settle the Oregon boundary dispute at the 49th parallel
- Acquiring California became a major objective
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
Misunderstandings with Mexico
This section details the deteriorating relations between the United States and Mexico, leading to war.
American Blood on American Soil
Tensions with Mexico escalated due to the Texas annexation and U.S. desire for California:
- Polk sent John Slidell to Mexico City in 1845 to negotiate the purchase of California
- Mexico refused to hear the proposal
- Polk ordered troops to the Rio Grande, leading to a Mexican attack on April 25, 1846
Quote: Polk declared that "American blood has been shed on American soil," using this as justification for war.
The Mastering of Mexico
The Mexican-American War unfolded with several key events:
- The short-lived California Bear Flag Republic in 1846
- American victories at Buena Vista and Mexico City
Fighting Mexico for Peace
The war concluded with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on February 2, 1848:
- Confirmed American title to Texas
- Yielded California and the Southwest to the U.S.
- The U.S. paid $15 million and assumed claims against Mexico
Highlight: The Mexican-American War satisfied the concept of Manifest Destiny but also resurfaced the issue of slavery expansion, leading to the controversial Wilmot Proviso.
Profit and Loss in Mexico
The war had significant consequences:
- Fulfilled the vision of Manifest Destiny
- Provided military experience for future Civil War officers
- Damaged relations between the U.S. and Latin America
- Intensified debates over slavery expansion in new territories
The Accession of "Tyler Too"
This section discusses John Tyler's unexpected rise to the presidency and his conflicts with the Whig Party.
John Tyler: A President Without a Party
John Tyler became president in 1841 after William Henry Harrison's death, just four weeks into his term. Despite being elected as a Whig, Tyler's Democratic leanings caused significant friction with his party.
Highlight: Tyler vetoed two Whig-sponsored bills to establish a new Bank of the United States, leading to his expulsion from the Whig party and the resignation of most of his cabinet.
Financial Reform and Party Conflict
Tyler's presidency was marked by conflicts over financial policy:
- He ended the independent treasury system
- Vetoed Whig attempts to create a new national bank
- Initially vetoed a Whig tariff proposal
- Eventually signed the more moderate Tariff of 1842
A War of Words with Britain
This period saw increased tensions between the United States and Britain:
- Anti-British sentiment was high due to bitter memories of past wars
- The Caroline incident of 1837 and the Creole affair in 1841 further strained relations
- These conflicts were dubbed the "Third War with England," fought with "paper and ink"
Vocabulary: The Aroostook War refers to a bloodless confrontation between the United States and Britain over the Maine-New Brunswick border.
Manipulating the Maine Maps
The boundary dispute between Maine and Canada led to the Aroostook War. Lord Ashburton and Daniel Webster negotiated a compromise on the Maine boundary, helping to ease tensions between the two nations.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
You have the choice, we offer a 100% secure payment via PayPal or an Amazon gift card. There is no limit to how much you can earn.
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
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
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
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
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
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 app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user