Manifest Destiny
Meaning
The 19th-century belief that the United States was divinely ordained to expand its dominion across the North American continent.
Origin
In the summer of 1845, a fervent belief swept across the young American nation, needing only a name to define its ambitions. Journalist John L. O'Sullivan provided it, coining 'Manifest Destiny' in an editorial arguing for the annexation of Texas. His words painted a vivid picture: it was America's obvious, undeniable fate to expand its dominion across the vast North American continent, a divine right to spread democracy and freedom from sea to shining sea. This powerful idea quickly became the rallying cry for westward expansion, transforming territorial desires into a sacred mission and profoundly shaping the nation's identity and its relentless push across the continent throughout the 19th century.
Examples
- The concept of Manifest Destiny fueled American expansion westward, leading to conflicts and the acquisition of vast new territories.
- Many settlers believed they were fulfilling Manifest Destiny by pushing the frontier further into indigenous lands.