Manifest Destiny

Definition

Manifest Destiny is a 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable. This belief was tied to a sense of American exceptionalism, which held that Americans had a divine right to spread their values and democracy across the continent, influencing policies and attitudes toward territorial expansion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'Manifest Destiny' was first coined by journalist John L. O'Sullivan in 1845, who argued that it was America's destiny to expand its territory across North America.
2. This ideology justified the annexation of Texas in 1845 and played a significant role in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848), leading to significant territorial gains for the U.S.
3. Manifest Destiny was fueled by a mix of nationalism, economic interests, and a belief in the racial superiority of Anglo-Saxon Americans over Native Americans and other cultures.
4. The idea contributed to conflicts with Native American tribes as settlers moved westward, resulting in forced relocations and cultural upheaval for many indigenous peoples.
5. While Manifest Destiny promoted territorial expansion, it also ignited debates over slavery's extension into new territories, leading to increased sectional tensions that would eventually culminate in the Civil War.

Review Questions

• How did Manifest Destiny shape American policies regarding westward expansion in the 19th century?
  • Manifest Destiny played a crucial role in shaping American policies as it provided a moral justification for westward expansion. The belief that it was America's divine right to expand led to aggressive actions such as the annexation of Texas and military engagement in the Mexican-American War. This doctrine influenced political decisions, including territorial acquisitions, ultimately altering the landscape of the United States.
• Discuss how Manifest Destiny impacted relations with Native American tribes during westward expansion.
  • Manifest Destiny had profound negative effects on Native American tribes as it legitimized their displacement from ancestral lands. The influx of settlers driven by this ideology often led to violent conflicts and forced removals, such as those seen during the Trail of Tears. The expansionist mindset disregarded existing Native rights and sovereignty, resulting in significant cultural loss and disruption for indigenous peoples.
• Evaluate how Manifest Destiny contributed to sectional tensions within the United States and its relation to the Civil War.
  • Manifest Destiny heightened sectional tensions by intensifying debates over slavery in newly acquired territories. As Americans moved westward, questions arose about whether these lands would be free or slave states, leading to conflicts like 'Bleeding Kansas.' The struggle between pro-slavery and anti-slavery factions became increasingly polarized, contributing to the breakdown of national unity and ultimately playing a critical role in igniting the Civil War.

Related terms

American Exceptionalism: The idea that the United States has a unique mission to transform the world and that its values and institutions are superior to those of other nations.

Louisiana Purchase: A land deal in 1803 between the United States and France, which doubled the size of the U.S. and significantly advanced the idea of westward expansion.

Oregon Trail: A historic east-to-west wagon route that connected the Missouri River to valleys in Oregon, facilitating migration and settlement in the Pacific Northwest.