Question

How did the US gain vast lands during the 19th century?

1) only though peaceful purchases

2) Only through the mexican american war

3) Through purchases. treaties, annexations. and wars

4) By trading eastern lands for western lands

Answer 1

Correct answer: 3) Through purchases, treaties, annexations, and wars.

Brief explanation/examples:
- Purchases: Louisiana Purchase (1803), Alaska (1867), Gadsden Purchase (1853).
- Treaties: Adams–Onís Treaty (Florida, 1819), Oregon Treaty with Britain (1846).
- Annexations: Texas (1845), Hawaiian Islands (annexed 1898).
- Wars: Mexican–American War resulting in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848) ceded the Southwest to the U.S.

(The U.S. also expanded by treaties and forced cessions from Native American tribes.)