The economic factors played a significant role in driving the westward expansion of the United States during the era of Manifest Destiny. One of the main motivations for westward migration was the desire for land. As the population grew and industrialization spread, settlers sought to acquire more land for farming, mining, and other economic activities. The availability of fertile soil and natural resources in the western territories presented lucrative opportunities for individuals and businesses.

The market revolution, characterized by advances in transportation and communication, also played a crucial role in driving westward expansion. The development of canals, railroads, and telegraph lines made it easier for goods and information to flow across the country, linking the newly settled areas with the eastern markets. This facilitated trade and sparked a boom in economic activity, encouraging more people to venture west in search of economic prosperity.

Another economic factor driving westward expansion was the desire for access to valuable resources. The western territories were rich in resources such as gold, silver, timber, and fertile land for agriculture. The discovery of gold in California during the mid-19th century, for example, led to a massive influx of people known as the California Gold Rush. This event not only contributed to the growth of California but also acted as a catalyst for further westward migration, as individuals hoped to strike it rich.

In conclusion, economic motivations, including the desire for land, access to resources, and the influence of the market revolution, played a crucial role in driving westward expansion during the era of Manifest Destiny. These economic factors not only shaped the course of American history but also laid the foundation for the development of the western territories and the growth of the United States as a whole.