Manifest destiny

Definition

Manifest destiny is the 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable. This belief fueled American nationalism and a sense of superiority, leading to significant cultural and territorial transformations, particularly in literature, politics, and interactions with Indigenous peoples.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Manifest destiny emerged in the 1840s as a response to the rapid territorial expansion and population growth in the United States.
2. It was used to justify wars, such as the Mexican-American War, which resulted in significant land acquisitions for the U.S.
3. The idea of manifest destiny contributed to cultural representations in literature, emphasizing themes of exploration, adventure, and divine right.
4. Many Native American tribes were forcibly removed from their lands as a direct result of manifest destiny, leading to loss of culture and life.
5. Manifest destiny played a key role in shaping national identity and attitudes towards race, ethnicity, and American citizenship during the 19th century.

Review Questions

• How did manifest destiny influence American literature during the 19th century?
  • Manifest destiny significantly influenced American literature by inspiring writers to explore themes of exploration, adventure, and national identity. Authors depicted the westward expansion as a heroic endeavor, often romanticizing the idea of bringing civilization to 'wild' territories. This narrative shaped public perception and reinforced a sense of American exceptionalism while sidelining or misrepresenting Indigenous perspectives.
• Analyze how manifest destiny affected U.S.-Native American relations in the 19th century.
  • Manifest destiny had profound effects on U.S.-Native American relations, often resulting in conflict and displacement. The belief that Americans were destined to expand westward led to policies that disregarded Indigenous rights and sovereignty. As settlers moved into Native lands, many tribes faced violent removal and forced relocation, exemplified by events like the Trail of Tears, which decimated communities and disrupted their cultures.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of manifest destiny on contemporary American society and its cultural landscape.
  • The long-term impacts of manifest destiny continue to resonate in contemporary American society. It shaped national identity and contributed to ongoing discussions about race, land ownership, and cultural appropriation. The idea that Americans have a divine right to expand has led to complex relationships with Indigenous peoples and ongoing debates about territorial rights and sovereignty. Furthermore, manifest destiny's legacy influences current policies regarding immigration and national borders.

Related terms

Westward Expansion: The movement of settlers and immigrants into the American West, which was driven by the idea of manifest destiny and resulted in the acquisition of vast territories.

American Exceptionalism: The belief that the United States has a unique mission to spread democracy and freedom, often associated with the justifications for manifest destiny.

Trail of Tears: The forced relocation of Native American nations from their ancestral homelands in the Southeastern United States to designated 'Indian Territory' west of the Mississippi River, highlighting the darker consequences of manifest destiny.