Manifest Destiny was a belief held by many Americans in the 19th century. It stated that the United States was destined to expand its territory from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. This belief was fueled by a combination of religious, economic, and political reasons.

Divine Mission:

Americans who believed in Manifest Destiny saw the westward expansion as a divine mission given to them by God. They viewed it as their duty to spread American values, democracy, and Christianity across the continent. This ideology was influenced by the concept of American exceptionalism, the belief that the United States was uniquely destined to lead and influence the world.

Motives for Expansion:

The desire for land and resources was a significant motive behind Manifest Destiny. As the population grew and opportunities for economic success diminished in the eastern states, Americans looked westward in search of fertile land, which could be cultivated for agriculture or mined for valuable minerals. Additionally, westward expansion was driven by the desire for access to ports, trade routes, and new markets.

Impact on Natives:

The westward expansion had devastating consequences for Native American tribes who often found themselves in conflict with settlers. Native Americans were forcibly displaced from their ancestral lands by government policies such as Indian Removal Act, resulting in the Trail of Tears where thousands died during the forced relocation. Many tribes faced violence and loss of their cultural heritage as white settlers encroached upon their territories.