What was one of the main motivations for white Southern settlers to expand into Texas? (A) To find gold and silver (B) To establish cotton plantations (C) To build new cities (D) To escape religious persecution

One of the main motivations for white Southern settlers to expand into Texas was to establish cotton plantations. The fertile land in Texas presented an appealing opportunity for these settlers to grow and harvest cotton, which was in high demand in both domestic and international markets. This agricultural expansion contributed significantly to the economy of the region and fueled the desire for land ownership among Southern settlers. Additionally, the allure of Texas was amplified by the concept of Manifest Destiny, the belief that the expansion of the United States was both justified and inevitable. This ideology spurred many settlers to seek new opportunities in Texas, not just for agricultural pursuits but also for the prospect of increased wealth and prosperity that came with claiming land in this promising territory.