The "Western faction" refers to a political group that emerged during the late 18th century in the United States, primarily advocating for the interests of settlers and landowners in the western territories. This faction often clashed with the more established Eastern elites, focusing on issues like land rights, expansion, and economic opportunities in the frontier regions. Members of the Western faction typically supported policies that promoted westward expansion, such as the Homestead Act and the Louisiana Purchase. They believed that access to land and resources was essential for the growth of the nation, contributing to the broader narrative of Manifest Destiny during the 19th century.