Manifest Destiny

Definition

Manifest Destiny is the 19th-century belief that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable. This ideology was rooted in a sense of American exceptionalism, where many believed that it was their duty to spread democracy and civilization, often at the expense of Native American and other populations. The idea of Manifest Destiny played a crucial role in driving American expansionist policies and fueled both exploration and territorial acquisitions during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Manifest Destiny became a prominent idea in the 1840s, influencing major events like the annexation of Texas and the Oregon Trail migration.
2. The phrase 'Manifest Destiny' was coined by journalist John L. O'Sullivan in 1845, expressing the belief that Americans were destined to expand westward.
3. This ideology often justified the displacement and suffering of Native American tribes as settlers moved into their territories.
4. Manifest Destiny was closely tied to the notion of 'bringing civilization' to what was seen as 'uncivilized' lands, which reflected a paternalistic view of indigenous peoples.
5. The belief in Manifest Destiny contributed to tensions with Mexico, culminating in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) and resulting in significant territorial gains for the United States.

Review Questions

• How did Manifest Destiny influence American expansionist policies in the 19th century?
  • Manifest Destiny served as a driving force behind American expansionist policies by framing territorial acquisition as a moral obligation. This ideology led to significant events such as the annexation of Texas and the Oregon Trail migrations, encouraging settlers to move westward. As Americans believed it was their duty to spread democracy and civilization, this mindset rationalized not only exploration but also the displacement of Native populations.
• Discuss the implications of Manifest Destiny on Native American communities during the period of westward expansion.
  • Manifest Destiny had devastating implications for Native American communities, as it justified their removal from ancestral lands. As settlers moved westward, policies like the Indian Removal Act were enacted, leading to forced relocations and significant suffering for indigenous populations. This expansionist mindset viewed Native Americans as obstacles to progress, resulting in cultural disruption and loss of life due to violence, disease, and displacement.
• Evaluate how the concept of Manifest Destiny affected U.S.-Mexico relations in the mid-19th century.
  • The concept of Manifest Destiny significantly impacted U.S.-Mexico relations by creating a narrative that framed westward expansion as a national destiny. This mindset contributed to rising tensions between the two nations, ultimately leading to the Mexican-American War. Following the war, the U.S. acquired vast territories including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, demonstrating how Manifest Destiny not only shaped domestic policies but also altered international boundaries and relations.

Related terms

American Exceptionalism: The belief that the United States has a unique mission to spread democracy and freedom, which underpinned many expansionist policies.

Territorial Expansion: The process by which a state increases its land holdings, particularly relevant to the United States' growth in the 19th century through treaties, purchases, and wars.

Indian Removal Act: A law passed in 1830 that authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands to designated territories in the west.