The Westward Expansion significantly shaped the United States, facilitating territorial growth and the idea of Manifest Destiny. This period, which included events like the Louisiana Purchase and the Oregon Trail, allowed the U.S. to stretch from the Atlantic to the Pacific. It played a crucial role in the nation’s economic development, providing resources and land for agriculture, which boosted population growth and settlement. However, this expansion often came at the dire expense of Native American populations, leading to conflict and displacement. The repercussions of Westward Expansion are still felt today in examining American identity, land rights, and historical narratives.