Uncover the Duality of Manifest Destiny: A Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Was Manifest Destiny a glorious mission or a national disgrace?
This thought-provoking reading comprehension worksheet delves into the complex concept of Manifest Destiny, the belief that fueled America's westward expansion. Explore:

• The Origins and Justifications: Unpack the roots of Manifest Destiny, including American exceptionalism and religious beliefs.
• The Impact on Native Americans: Analyze the devastating consequences of displacement and the human cost of westward expansion.
• A Turning Point: The Louisiana Purchase: Examine a pivotal event fueled by Manifest Destiny and its lasting impact.
• Critics and Consequences: Discover the voices of dissent and evaluate the long-term legacy of Manifest Destiny.

Strengthen critical thinking with a variety of engaging questions:

• Multiple Choice: Test key factual understanding.
• Matching: Reinforce key figures and events.
• Fill-in-the-Blank: Solidify essential details and chronology.
• Short Answer: Encourage analysis, synthesis, and evaluation using a primary source excerpt.

Answer Key included for easy assessment!

Learning Objectives:

• Students will be able to explain the concept of Manifest Destiny and its historical context.
• Students will be able to analyze the impact of Manifest Destiny on Native American tribes.
• Students will be able to evaluate the arguments for and against Manifest Destiny.
• Students will be able to understand the long-term consequences of Manifest Destiny on the United States.

Recommended Common Core Standards:

• RI.5.1: Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says or when analyzing its content.
• RI.5.2: Determine the central ideas or author's purpose of a text and explain how it is supported by key details.
• RI.5.3: Explain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a text.
• RI.5.6: Analyze the author's point of view in a text and distinguish it from the narrator's or character's point of view.

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