This unit focuses on the growth and expansion of the United States during the antebellum period. The growth is in the democratic spirit as embodied during the age of Jackson and physical expansion as the country's borders extend to the Pacific. Growth brings challenges with foreign powers, to the economy, and between disparate sections of the country. Despite increasing problems, the antebellum period also sees the emergence of a reforming spirit as Americans tried to improve living conditions for all segments of the population.