Introduction
Manifest Destiny was used in the 1800s to describe the belief that the United States’ destiny was to expand its territorial boundaries to the Pacific Ocean. This concept propelled the country’s expansion and legitimized the acquisition of vast territories. While Manifest Destiny was more of a description than a cause of historical events, it profoundly influenced the course of history.
Definition
Manifest Destiny was based on the notion that the United States had a divine mission to expand its boundaries and spread its values of democracy and liberty. This idea was used to justify the acquisition of large tracts of land from Native American tribes, the Mexican-American War, and the exploration and settlement of the western territories (Weinberg, 2020). The notion of Manifest Destiny was also used to justify the displacement of Native Americans and the subjugation of other cultures.
Influence
Manifest Destiny heavily influenced the growth of the United States. It validated the possession of extensive land and the colonization of the western districts. Manifest Destiny gave a sense of purpose and mission to those who believed in it, impelling them to expand the nation’s borders (Weinberg, 2020). It also inspired pioneers to move westward and stimulated the investigation of the territories.
Implications
Manifest Destiny was a driving force behind the displacement of Native Americans, the procurement of expansive regions of land, the investigation of western provinces, and the colonization of those same western regions. The growth of the nation’s boundaries enabled new economic opportunities, the formation of railroads, and the fabrication of businesses (Weinberg, 2020). Manifest Destiny was a colossal factor in the prosperity of the United States.
Conclusion
The concept of Manifest Destiny was a driving force behind the United States’ expansion in the 19th century. It provided a sense of purpose and mission to those who believed in it and encouraged the exploration and settlement of the western territories. Although Manifest Destiny primarily described historical trends rather than causing them, it significantly impacted the course of events. The events that Manifest Destiny caused included the displacement of Native Americans, the acquisition of large tracts of land, the exploration of western territories, and the subsequent settlement of these territories.
Reference
Weinberg, A. K. (2020). Manifest destiny: A study of nationalist expansionism in American history. Barakaldo Books.