What was "Manifest Destiny"?

Manifest Destiny was defined as the belief that Americans were destined to expand across the North American continent. This ideology emerged in the 19th century and was used to justify the westward expansion of the United States, reflecting a sense of mission that American settlers were divinely ordained to spread their civilization and values across the continent. This belief was rooted in a combination of a sense of racial superiority, a commitment to democracy, and a belief in the economic opportunities that expansion would provide.

The notion of Manifest Destiny played a significant role in identifying key events in American history, such as the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Trail's migration, and the Mexican-American War. Proponents viewed it as a moral imperative, leading to policies and actions that would involve the displacement of Native American tribes and increased tensions over slavery in the new territories.

Understanding this concept is vital for comprehending the motivations behind American expansionism during the 19th century and its far-reaching consequences on both American society and indigenous populations.