What were the main reasons for the early settlers moving westward during the 19th century?

Several factors drove early settlers westward. Firstly, economic opportunities such as the promise of land ownership through the Homestead Act, and the potential wealth from mining activities like the Gold Rush, were significant lures. Secondly, the ideology of 'Manifest Destiny' instilled a belief that it was the nation's destiny to expand across the continent. Additionally, some groups, like the Mormons, moved to escape religious persecution and establish their communities.