Manifest Destiny

Manifest Destiny is a phrase that expressed the belief that the United States had a divinely inspired mission to expand, to progress, and to spread its form of democracy and freedom. Originally a political catch phrase of the nineteenth century, Manifest Destiny eventually became a standard historical term, often used as a synonym for the territorial expansion of the United States across North America towards the Pacific Ocean.

Long-term effects

The subsequent effects of the country's western expansion through the end of the 19th century were profound, and perhaps even more far-reaching than its promoters could have anticipated. The Oregon territory proved as fertile as expected (although rainier and more remote than imagined). Discovery of gold in 1849 in California (see California gold rush) and other mineral wealth elsewhere accelerated growth and the growth of several huge new industrial empires. The turmoil of the American Civil War and freeing of the slaves stimulated further migration westward to new lands. It can be argued that disagreements over whether slavery had a part in the nation's Manifest Destiny lay at the heart of that conflict.

Related Topics:
19th century - 1849 - California - California gold rush - Mineral - American Civil War

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Belief in Manifest Destiny was one of the driving factors behind the Mexican-American War of 1846-48, during which the United States captured Alta California and Nuevo Mexico from Mexico. On December 2, 1845, U.S. President James Polk announced to Congress that the Monroe Doctrine should be strictly enforced and that the United States should aggressively expand into the West.

Related Topics:
Mexican-American War - 1846 - 48 - Alta California - Nuevo Mexico - December 2 - 1845 - James Polk - Monroe Doctrine

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Manifest Destiny and various other statements of moral, political, and often racial superiority were used to justify the displacement of Native Americans. Similar doctrines (such as the white man's burden) were concurrently being used by Europeans elsewhere in the world to justify colonial conquests in Africa and Asia.

Related Topics:
White man's burden - Europeans - Africa - Asia

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The term "Manifest Destiny" is still sometimes mentioned in Canada when the subject of Canadian-American relations is discussed. Some Canadians believe that the United States has never fully abandoned its goal of fulfilling its Manifest Destiny by annexing Canadian territory. (See also: 51st state.)

Related Topics:
Canada - 51st state

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