Manifest destiny

Definition

Manifest destiny is a 19th-century doctrine that held that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable. This belief was rooted in the notion that Americans were destined to spread democracy and capitalism across the entire North American continent, which influenced cultural, political, and artistic expressions during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Manifest destiny emerged in the 1840s as a justification for territorial expansion, leading to events such as the annexation of Texas and the Oregon Trail migration.
2. Artists like Albert Bierstadt captured the grandeur of the American landscape, often portraying scenes that evoked a sense of destiny and national pride linked to westward expansion.
3. The ideology played a significant role in the displacement of Native American tribes, as settlers moved westward under the belief that they were fulfilling a divine mandate.
4. Manifest destiny contributed to conflicts such as the Mexican-American War, which stemmed from disputes over territory and sovereignty.
5. The concept was not universally accepted; it faced criticism from various groups, including abolitionists who saw it as a means to spread slavery into new territories.

Review Questions

• How did manifest destiny influence artistic expression in the United States during the 19th century?
  • Manifest destiny significantly shaped artistic expression by inspiring artists to depict expansive landscapes and scenes of exploration that reflected national pride. Artists like Thomas Cole and Albert Bierstadt created works celebrating America’s natural beauty and potential for growth, often portraying pioneers bravely venturing into the wilderness. These artworks served to reinforce the ideology of manifest destiny, capturing not just the beauty of the land but also a sense of purpose in America's expansion.
• In what ways did manifest destiny impact social relations between settlers and Native American populations?
  • Manifest destiny had profound impacts on social relations between settlers and Native Americans by fostering a sense of entitlement among settlers. This belief led to widespread displacement of indigenous tribes, justified by the notion that expansion was a divine right. The aggressive pursuit of land often resulted in violent conflicts, broken treaties, and loss of traditional ways of life for Native Americans, highlighting the darker consequences of this doctrine.
• Evaluate the legacy of manifest destiny on contemporary American identity and politics.
  • The legacy of manifest destiny continues to influence contemporary American identity and politics by shaping narratives around national exceptionalism and territorial expansion. It has instilled a mindset that promotes viewing America as a land of opportunity, often linked to ideas about democracy and freedom. However, this perspective can also lead to contentious debates regarding immigration, foreign policy, and indigenous rights, as remnants of this doctrine's implications still resonate within discussions about America's role on the global stage.

Related terms

Westward Expansion: The movement of settlers and immigrants into the American West during the 19th century, driven by the belief in manifest destiny.

American Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individualism, reflecting the ideals of manifest destiny through themes of exploration and adventure.

Homestead Act: A law passed in 1862 that encouraged westward migration by providing settlers with land at little or no cost, embodying the principles of manifest destiny.