Manifest Destiny

Manifest Destiny

A belief in the 1800s that the United States had a divine right to expand its territory from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean.

John O'Sullivan

Newspaper editor who coined the term "Manifest Destiny" in 1845 to describe U.S. westward expansion.

Louisiana Territory

Land purchased from France in 1803, marking the beginning of U.S. territorial expansion.

Florida Acquisition

The U.S. acquired Florida from Spain in 1819 as part of its expansion efforts.

Texas Annexation

The incorporation of Texas into the United States in 1845, a significant event in the context of Manifest Destiny.

American Progress

A painting by John Gast in 1872 that symbolizes the belief in Manifest Destiny, depicting America as a woman bringing light to the west.

Native American Displacement

The forced removal and mistreatment of Native American nations as a result of U.S. expansion under Manifest Destiny.

Slavery in the West

The spread of slavery into newly acquired western territories, leading to national debates over its legality.

James K

U.S. president whose election was influenced by the belief in Manifest Destiny, leading to significant territorial acquisitions.

Mexican Cession

Land ceded to the U.S. by Mexico as a result of the Mexican-American War, part of the expansion driven by Manifest Destiny.

Gadsden Purchase

A 1853 agreement in which the U.S. acquired land from Mexico, furthering the goals of Manifest Destiny.

Legacy of Manifest Destiny

The lasting impact on U.S. history, including issues of territorial expansion, Native American rights, and the spread of slavery.