The Extension of Boundaries

In the year 1819 many things had happened that strengthened the United States. A strong sense of nationalism had overcome many Americans because of the expansions that were taking place during this time. This was the “Era of Good Feelings”, but that doesn’t mean that hardships weren’t faced during this time. Risks had to be taken to achieve goals. As stated, “High risk, high reward”, which is what was shown during this time period with Andrew Jackson and John Quincy Adams. Spain had control of Florida, but their reign had been declining quickly for a good while. In 1816 some escaped slaves had taken control of a British fort in Florida and rebelled against some U.S. soldiers. This was near some Seminole Indians that perceived this as hostile and started to attack some white settlements. Andrew Jackson was a General at this point and time and he promised President Monroe that they could take control of Florida within 60 days. The President didn’t approve this action, but Andrew Jackson continued with this plan regardless. The point of this was to capture the Seminole Indians that had attacked the white settlements and fled into Florida to escape prosecution. Under the leadership of Andrew Jackson, Soldiers attacked a Spanish fort and captured two Seminole Indian chiefs. Two British traders were accused of provoking the Indians to attack the settlements. The General soon captured West Florida and planted the American government. Americans that wanted to expand were excited, but on the other hand there was a very angry Spain. Florida was demanded to be given back by Spain. This was not taken a threat because the U.S. saw that Spain didn’t have the power to go up against them as a nation. Jackson was punished, but was not taken down from command. Jackson had taken a high risk with invading Spanish territory, but in the end expanded the nation as a whole, improved nationalism, and showed off the military power to foreign countries. That leaves you with the question, could there have been an easier way to take over Florida? Or maybe this was the easiest way. In any case, good feeling were spreading over the country like a disease and one man saw an opportunity of a lifetime to keep those feelings alive. His name was John Quincy Adams who was Secretary of State and he was good friends with Andrew Jackson. Spanish bought the territory back from the U.S. knowing that it could be taken back at any time. Adams negotiated with Spain for the Louisiana Purchase. The goal was the Texas border, but it was a bit much so Adams settled for Louisiana. He was determined and adamant about claiming this territory. In 1819 Adams was able to convince Spain to sign the Adams-Onis treaty and allow the U.S. to completely take Florida. Final Ratifications of were made in 1821 for Florida and its first governor was selected, Andrew Jackson. By 1845 Florida would officially become a state on the map. These men took great risks and achieved something great for not only themselves, but a whole nation for years to come. This shows the high risk and high reward theory. This theory is shown in today’s modern age especially with businesses. It kind of goes along with the American Dream, so maybe gives someone the feeling of American Spirit! People may take this for granted today, but the USA could be different without Florida. Later on Andrew Jackson became President, but would he have if he never took over Florida? There’s many what if’s, but the fact of the matter is what happened is done and everyone should remember those good feelings. These feelings weren’t achieved by a single man, but many men. This situation showed people in the future that by working together, many great things may be achieved. With this I leave you, Do you think that Jackson’s plan was an important factor in history?