However westward expansion did have some problems, Congress were worried about establishing a satisfactory land system, it resulted in a number of land laws being passed. They were also worried about the form of government the west would devise, although as new states were set up in the west, all of them joined the statehood. The most difficult was the problem of the Indians.
As each problem was overcome the feeling of nationalism grew in America.
With each new state admitted into the union the more nationalism was spread across the country. During the period of 1789-1815 seven new states were admitted, North Carolina 1789, Rhode Island 1790, Vermont 1791, Kentucky 1792, Tennessee 1796, Ohio 1803 and Louisiana 1812. As people expanded into the west, the American adventuring spirit was awoken. .
There was rapid expansion across the west. Reports, phamplets and letters sent back to those in the east described the west as "bountiful rather than harsh and risky".3.
The first document I will look at is "Jefferson seeks Congressional Funding for Exploration of the Louisiana Territory, 1803."pg 168 of the Enduring Voices book. The document talks about how America wanted to ensure a quick expansion into Louisiana. Jefferson speaks of wanting to involve the natives in discussions so that they can establish trade. He goes on to say that it is their constitutional right to expand into the west, and it will extend their commerce. .
This document provides support to the fact that expansion was rapid and improved the economy of the United States. It also supports the claim that westward expansion contributed to nationalism, with it claiming that it is their constitutional right. The United States immediately supports expansion because everybody believes in the constitution.
As each new state was admitted the size of the United States grew. When America purchased Louisiana from Napoleon in 1803 for $15 million the size of America doubled.
