History of North America

In what year was the westward expansion?

There were several stages of westward expansion in the United States, each with its own time frame. The major periods are:

1. First Stage (1607-1763):

This period saw the initial settlement of the Atlantic coast by European colonists.

2. Second Stage (1763-1803):

After gaining independence from Britain in 1783, the colonies began to expand westward. The territory of Louisiana was purchased from France in 1803, doubling the size of the country.

3. Third Stage (1803-1848):

This stage was marked by the rapid expansion to the Pacific Ocean, including the War of 1812 and the acquisition of Texas and the Oregon Territory.

4. Fourth Stage (1848-1890):

This was the height of the westward expansion. The California Gold Rush of 1849 attracted thousands of settlers, and the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869 connected the East and West Coasts.

So, to provide a more precise answer, it would be helpful to know which specific stage or event of the westward expansion you're referring to.