Which factors led to the mid-1800s' westward expansion in the united states? expansionist program gold discovery homestead act railroad modernization population increase

It was all of the above
The idea began with the expansionist program called the Manifest Destiny, a doctrine which said that it was God's plan for the United States to grow from coast to coast.

The Homestead Act was used to encourage families to settle in new areas by providing them 160 Acres of free land on the condition that they stay there for 5 years.
The discovery of Gold and the development of railroads further helped make it easy and more attractive to settle in western lands. 

When modernization reached the west coast and populations increased, these areas became attractive areas of settlement for everyone

Early in the story when tom finds an indian skull in the woods which he kicks in temper. the devil then makes his appearance and, as tom surveys him, he notices that the devil is neither "negro" nor "indian." in fact, he has a "swarthy" complexion and is "begrimed with soot."

Ashould be answer.