Manifest Destiny: Economic, And Religious Consequences

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Title: Manifest Destiny: Economic, Political, and Religious Factors and the Consequences of U.S. Manifest Destiny was a belief prevalent in 19th-century America that asserted the divine right and obligation of the United States to expand across the North American continent. This expansion was driven by a combination of economic, political, and religious factors. The acquisition of territories such as the Oregon Country, Texas, and California and the Southwest was achieved through diplomacy, annexation, and war. However, the pursuit of expansionism was not without its critics, particularly in the case of the U.S.-Mexican War. Economically, Manifest Destiny was fueled by the desire for territorial expansion to secure new resources, trade routes, and markets. The acquisition of Oregon Country was driven by the …show more content…

Expansion was seen to strengthen the United States as a global power and ensure its security. The notion of "American exceptionalism" played a role, with the belief that the United States had a unique mission to fulfill in spreading democracy and civilization. The acquisition of new territories was viewed as a means to extend the influence of the American political system, maintain a balance of power, and prevent potential European enrichment on the continent. Furthermore Religious factors also played an essential role in Manifest Destiny, for some Manifest destiny was a sense of divine providence and the belief that God had ordained the expansion of the United States. The idea of a chosen nation and a "city upon a hill" resonated strongly with religious Americans, who viewed westward expansion as a necessary mission. Religious leaders and preachers often supported and justified Manifest Destiny, emphasizing the spread of Christianity and the moral duty to civilize and convert Native American