THE WESTWARD MOVEMENT:
Its Effect on Humanity
By Margaret Mannion

Summary

This unit is designed to make students aware that migration and moving are integral parts of human history. Westward Migration and Manifest Destiny have had long-lasting repercussions in the United States and have affected everyone in its path. It is critical for students to recognize its importance. This unit conforms to California State Standards 8.8.2 and 8.8.3 and the San Francisco Unified School District Standards 8.5.4 and 8.5.5.

Subject: United States History

Grade-level: Middle School

Time:

Objectives: Gain an appreciation of migratory peoples and the positive and negative results generated by the clashing of languages, cultures, and traditions. Develop a clearer understanding of the decisions made by migrants before moving and recognize that westward movement impacted all areas of society and especially the Native Americans who were in the migrants’ path.