The term of “manifest destiny” was originally coined in 1845 by newspaper editor John O’Sullivan to describe a largely popular belief/ mindset according to which US settlers were destined to conquer North America and expand their special virtues, institutions, technological progress, etc. Obviously, nowadays, it is a lesson of how ...Read More
The term of “manifest destiny” was originally coined in 1845 by newspaper editor John O’Sullivan to describe a largely popular belief/ mindset according to which US settlers were destined to conquer North America and expand their special virtues, institutions, technological progress, etc. Obviously, nowadays, it is a lesson of how large fractions of society can be deceived by tempting ideas that portray their beliefs as superior (of a higher class) compared to those of others or by ignoring others (e.g. indigenous people). Many works on manifest destiny topics analyze the impact of this individual and political mindset on 19th-century US history (and in particular, on the wars carried). Find here essay samples on manifest destiny topics with exemplary structure, formatting, and style.
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “Manifest Destiny” is dened as “the 19th century doctrine or belief that the expansion of the US throughout the American continents was both justied and inevitable” (Manifest). It’s easy to see how this thinking inuenced people and events of...
The United States of America has endured many substantial changes throughout its extensive history. Manifest Destiny played a huge role in making this great country what it is today. In the nineteenth century, Manifest Destiny was a phrase first used by an American journalist by...
Manifest Destiny
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Seeing the fact that much of the trans-Mississippi West laid outside U.S. boundaries, Americans of the mid 1800s were realizing that the future of the lands west resided with the United States. Manifest destiny served as a justification for expansion by conveying the popular belief...
One of the biggest and most affluent nations on the planet, the United States of America, has experienced numerous adjustments in its long history. From winning its autonomy from Great Britain to show day, America has changed significantly and keeps on evolving. A term initially...
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “Manifest Destiny” is defined as “the 19th-century doctrine or belief that the expansion of the US throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable” (Manifest). It’s easy to see how this thinking influenced people and events of this...
John O’Sullivan, a journalist, was the first to put to use the term “manifest destiny.” He purposefully coined it for capturing the general feeling of the United States people at the time. The feeling was that they harbored a God-given duty of expanding into the...
In the nineteenth century, many Americans began migrating westward as part of a greater movement, Manifest Destiny. Manifest Destiny upheld the founding ideal of opportunity, especially through granting farmers free land, compensating Native Americans, and providing jobs for immigrants. Made-to-order essay as fast as you...
The American dream of Manifest Destiny began to take the nation by storm during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, this was an era of westward expansion and exploration. Breathtaking land was discovered; however, Congress was more concerned about modernizing and settling the land...
America at the end of the 19th century was a place of rapid change and economic progress. The dilemma American’s faced was that they lived in an incredibly resource rich country, but lacked the means of production (machines and labourers) to exploit these resources. However,...
The Idea Behind American Expansion You ever hear about Manifest Destiny? It’s this idea from way back in the 19th century. Lots of folks in America thought it was their destiny, like a calling or something, to spread out across the continent. They believed they...
Manifest Destiny
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Introduction The Indian Removal Policy, rolled out by the U.S. government back in the 1830s, stirred quite a pot in American history. This policy aimed at moving Native American tribes off their homelands to places west of the Mississippi River. It shook things up big...
Manifest Destiny was a widely held belief in the United States during the 19th century that the country was destined to expand across the North American continent. This belief was used to justify the westward expansion of the United States, often at the expense of...
Introduction: Manifest Destiny was a 19th-century belief that the United States was destined to expand across the North American continent, from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. This expansionist ideology played a significant role in shaping American policy and attitudes during the 1800s. While some...
In the early 19th century, the notion of Manifest Destiny swept across the United States, igniting a fervent belief in the country’s divine mission to expand westward. This powerful ideology served as the driving force behind the relentless expansion of American territory, shaping the nation’s...
Introduction to Manifest Destiny Back in the 19th century, Americans were gripped by this idea called Manifest Destiny. Ever heard of it? It was more than just politics or money—it was a belief. Folks thought that America was meant to stretch from coast to coast,...
In the nineteenth century, many Americans began migrating westward as part of a greater movement, Manifest Destiny. Manifest Destiny was the founding ideal of opportunity, especially through granting farmers free land, compensating Native Americans, and providing jobs for immigrants. Farmers benefited greatly from Manifest Destiny...
The purpose of this paper is to discuss immigration and expansion, as well as the mindset of individuals of the early 20th century. This will delve into topics such as American imperialism and Manifest Destiny and the impact they have on workplaces today, how American...
Soon after Santa Anna overturned Mexico’s democratic constitution and started a dictatorship. In the year 1853 Douglas suggested forming 2 new territories- the Kansas Territory and the Nebraska Territory. Mexican Cession land & Manifest Destiny achieved- Under the treaty, Mexico recognized the annexation of Texas...
Throughout the history of the United States, numerous foreign policies were established resulting in controversy among the American people. Following America’s development as an independent nation, policies were enforced to obtain opportunities that would influence the United States in a positive light. America’s neutrality in...
In order to fully understand the entirety of the Mexican War, it is important to understand the concept of Manifest destiny. Manifest destiny was a term coined by John L. O’Sullivan in 1845. This term was “the latest justification for white settlers to take the...
Manifest Destiny was a widely held belief in the United States during the 19th century that the country’s expansion across North America was both justified and inevitable. It was a driving force behind the westward expansion of the United States and had significant implications for...
Introduction In the 19th century, the United States experienced a period of rapid expansion and territorial acquisition known as Manifest Destiny. This ideology, fueled by a sense of nationalism and a desire for territorial expansion, played a significant role in shaping the nation’s history and...
In the 19th century, the United States experienced a period of expansion, both geographically and politically, that would shape the country’s identity and influence for years to come. This expansion was driven by the concepts of Manifest Destiny and American Imperialism, which justified the nation’s...
The term "Manifest Destiny" emerged in the 19th century in the United States and was linked to the belief that it was the nation's destiny and divine mission to expand across the North American continent. The concept gained popularity in the 1840s, driven by a sense of American exceptionalism and the idea of spreading democratic values, civilization, and Christianity.
The etymology of "Manifest Destiny" can be traced back to two key elements: "manifest" and "destiny." The word "manifest" comes from the Latin word "manifestus," meaning "evident" or "obvious." "Destiny," on the other hand, originates from the Middle English word "destinee," which refers to a predetermined course of events or a divine plan.
The phrase was popularized by newspaper editor John L. O'Sullivan in 1845 when he used it to advocate for the annexation of Texas. The idea of Manifest Destiny played a significant role in shaping American policy and expansionism, influencing decisions to acquire territories like Oregon, California, and the Southwest through diplomacy, treaties, and, at times, military force. While the concept has been heavily critiqued for its impact on Native American populations and international relations, it remains a crucial historical term to understand the motivations behind American westward expansion.
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Manifest Destiny was a widely-held belief in the United States during the 19th century that it was the nation's destiny and divine mission to expand across the North American continent. The term "Manifest Destiny" originated from the idea that this expansion was not only inevitable but also justified and sanctioned by a higher power. It was driven by notions of American exceptionalism, the spread of democracy, and the desire to extend American influence and values.
The concept gained popularity in the 1840s and played a significant role in shaping American policy and expansionist efforts. It led to the acquisition of territories like Texas, Oregon, California, and parts of the Southwest through various means, including treaties, purchases, and military conflicts.
Manifest Destiny had far-reaching consequences, both positive and negative. It facilitated westward migration, economic development, and the consolidation of American power. However, it also resulted in the displacement, mistreatment, and marginalization of Native American populations, as well as conflicts with Mexico and tensions with other world powers.
While the term "Manifest Destiny" is not as commonly used today, its historical significance and impact on American history and identity make it an important topic of study and analysis.
Historical Context
The historical context of Manifest Destiny can be traced back to the early 19th century in the United States. At that time, the country was undergoing significant social, political, and economic changes. The idea of westward expansion and territorial acquisition gained traction as the population grew, and there was a desire for new land and resources.
Several factors contributed to the rise of Manifest Destiny. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which doubled the size of the United States, fueled a sense of optimism and a belief in the country's destiny for further expansion. The concept was also influenced by notions of American exceptionalism, the belief that the United States was uniquely blessed and destined to spread its values and institutions.
The ideology of Manifest Destiny was further supported by the religious beliefs prevalent in the country, particularly Protestant Christianity, which saw the westward movement as a divine mission to spread Christianity and civilization.
The historical context of the era, marked by economic growth, territorial ambitions, and a sense of national pride, provided fertile ground for the development and acceptance of Manifest Destiny as a guiding principle for American expansionism.
Notable People
1. John L. O'Sullivan: A prominent journalist and advocate of Manifest Destiny, O'Sullivan coined the term in an article published in 1845. He argued that it was the divine mission of the United States to expand its territory and bring American values to the western frontier.
2. James K. Polk: As the 11th President of the United States from 1845 to 1849, Polk actively pursued a policy of westward expansion. He oversaw the annexation of Texas, negotiated the Oregon Treaty with Great Britain, and initiated the Mexican-American War, all with the goal of acquiring more territory for the United States.
3. Frederick Douglass: An abolitionist and former slave, Douglass criticized Manifest Destiny for its disregard of the rights and well-being of Native Americans and the expansion of slavery. He argued that the nation's focus should be on addressing the injustices within its borders rather than seeking to expand them.
Major Events
1. Louisiana Purchase (1803): President Thomas Jefferson negotiated the purchase of the Louisiana Territory from France, doubling the size of the United States. This acquisition provided vast new lands for westward expansion.
2. Annexation of Texas (1845): Texas gained independence from Mexico in 1836 and was later annexed by the United States. This action contributed to tensions with Mexico, eventually leading to the Mexican-American War.
3. Oregon Treaty (1846): The United States and Great Britain signed the Oregon Treaty, establishing the border between the United States and British-controlled territories in the Pacific Northwest. The settlement secured American claims to present-day Oregon, Washington, and parts of Idaho and Wyoming.
4. Mexican-American War (1846-1848): The United States engaged in a conflict with Mexico over the annexation of Texas and the disputed territories of California and New Mexico. The war resulted in significant territorial gains for the United States, including the cession of large parts of present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado.
Influence
1. Territorial Expansion: Manifest Destiny fueled a sense of entitlement and divine right to expand American territory. It justified the acquisition of vast lands, including the Louisiana Purchase, Texas, and the western territories acquired through the Mexican-American War. This expansion shaped the geographic boundaries of the United States and paved the way for westward settlement.
2. Native American Displacement: The belief in Manifest Destiny often led to the displacement and mistreatment of Native American tribes. As settlers moved westward, conflicts arose over land and resources, resulting in the forced removal of tribes from their ancestral territories. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 and the Trail of Tears are tragic examples of the consequences of Manifest Destiny for Native Americans.
3. National Identity and Exceptionalism: Manifest Destiny became intertwined with American national identity and the belief in American exceptionalism. It fostered a sense of destiny and mission, viewing the United States as a chosen nation with a duty to spread its values, institutions, and way of life across the continent. This notion of exceptionalism continues to shape American political and cultural discourse.
4. Impact on Foreign Policy: Manifest Destiny also influenced American foreign policy. It contributed to the push for territorial acquisitions, such as the annexation of Hawaii and the Philippines, as well as the desire for commercial access to the Pacific and the idea of America as a global power.
In Media
1. Literature: Many works of literature explore the themes and ideas associated with Manifest Destiny. One notable example is the novel "Blood Meridian" by Cormac McCarthy. Set in the mid-19th century, the novel follows a group of outlaws engaged in violent encounters along the American-Mexican border, highlighting the brutal consequences of Manifest Destiny.
2. Films: Several films have depicted the era of Manifest Destiny and its impact on American history. One such film is "The Revenant" (2015), directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu. Based on a true story, it portrays the harshness of the American frontier during the 1820s and showcases the conflicts between indigenous peoples and settlers driven by the ideology of Manifest Destiny.
3. Artwork: Manifest Destiny has also been represented in visual art. The painting "American Progress" by John Gast (1872) is an iconic example. The painting depicts an angelic figure leading settlers and pioneers across the American West, symbolizing the belief in the divine mission to expand and civilize the continent.
Did You Know?
1. Manifest Destiny led to significant territorial expansion for the United States. By the mid-19th century, the United States had acquired vast territories, including the Louisiana Purchase (1803), the annexation of Texas (1845), the Oregon Territory (1846), and the Mexican Cession (1848). This expansion increased the size of the country and shaped its geopolitical landscape.
2. Manifest Destiny fueled westward migration and settlement. The allure of new opportunities, fertile land, and the belief in a prosperous future drew thousands of settlers to venture across the continent. The California Gold Rush of 1849 further accelerated westward migration as people sought fortune and a fresh start in the West.
3. Manifest Destiny resulted in conflicts and displacement of Native American tribes. As American settlers moved westward, they encroached upon Native American lands, leading to clashes and displacement of indigenous populations. These conflicts, such as the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, had a profound impact on Native American communities, shaping their history and challenging their sovereignty.
Why should this topic be used?
Manifest Destiny is a crucial topic to explore and analyze in an essay due to its significant impact on American history and the development of the United States as a nation. Understanding Manifest Destiny provides insights into the motivations, beliefs, and actions that drove westward expansion in the 19th century. By examining this concept, one can delve into the political, social, and cultural factors that influenced American expansionism.
An essay on Manifest Destiny allows for an examination of the complex interplay between nationalism, imperialism, and the expansion of democratic ideals. It raises important questions about American identity, the relationship between settlers and Native Americans, and the ethical implications of territorial acquisition.
Moreover, exploring Manifest Destiny encourages critical thinking about the legacies of westward expansion, including the displacement of indigenous populations, the exacerbation of sectional tensions leading to the Civil War, and the shaping of American identity as a continental power. By examining the origins, historical context, notable figures, and consequences of Manifest Destiny, an essay can provide a comprehensive understanding of this pivotal period in American history and its ongoing relevance in contemporary discussions of nationalism, imperialism, and land rights.
Related Resources
1. Boorstin, D. J. (1973). The Americans: The national experience. Vintage.
2. DeVoto, B. (1994). The course of empire. Mariner Books.
3. Divine, R. A. (1998). The illusion of destiny: A historiography of the American West. University of Nebraska Press.
4. Etulain, R. W. (2017). Western lives: A biographical history of the American West. University of Oklahoma Press.
5. Hietala, T. R. (1989). Manifest design: Anxious aggrandizement in late Jacksonian America. Cornell University Press.
6. Horsman, R. (1981). Race and manifest destiny: The origins of American racial anglo-saxonism. Harvard University Press.
7. Kagan, R. (2006). Dangerous nation: America's place in the world from its earliest days to the dawn of the 20th century. Vintage.
8. Limerick, P. N. (1992). The legacy of conquest: The unbroken past of the American West. W. W. Norton & Company.
9. May, L. (1973). Manifest destiny's underworld: Filibustering in Antebellum America. University of North Carolina Press.
10. Stephanson, A. (1996). Manifest destiny: American expansionism and the empire of right. Hill and Wang.
