When discussing the expansion of the United States in the 19th century, the term “Manifest Destiny” often comes into the spotlight. This phrase, coined in the 1840s, encapsulated the belief that the United States was destined to expand across the North American continent. However, Manifest Destiny was not just a single belief but rather a set of beliefs that propelled the country westward. In this article, we will explore the two main beliefs that were parts of Manifest Destiny, and how they shaped the course of American history.
1. Divine Providence
Divine Providence was a central tenet of Manifest Destiny. This belief held that the United States was chosen by a higher power to spread democracy and civilization across the continent. This idea was rooted in religious faith and the belief in America as a beacon of freedom and progress.
The notion of Divine Providence can be traced back to the Puritans, who saw themselves as a “city upon a hill” – a shining example to the rest of the world. This sense of exceptionalism fueled the idea that the United States had a special role to play in the world, and that it was destined to expand its territory in order to fulfill its divine mission.
Proponents of Manifest Destiny often invoked religious language to justify their expansionist goals. They saw the westward movement as a fulfillment of God’s will, and the spread of American institutions and values as a righteous endeavor. This belief in Divine Providence provided a moral and spiritual justification for the territorial ambitions of the United States.
Throughout the 19th century, this belief in the divine mission of the United States guided the actions of political leaders, settlers, and expansionists. It played a significant role in shaping public opinion and garnering support for westward expansion, despite its consequences for Native American populations and other inhabitants of the territories being colonized.
Key Points:
- Divine Providence was a central belief of Manifest Destiny, asserting that the United States was chosen by a higher power to spread democracy and civilization.
- It traced its roots to the Puritans and the idea of America as a “city upon a hill,” a beacon of freedom and progress.
- This belief provided a moral and spiritual justification for the territorial ambitions of the United States, guiding the actions of political leaders and settlers.
2. American Exceptionalism
The belief in American Exceptionalism was another important component of Manifest Destiny. This concept held that the United States was inherently different and superior to other nations, and as such, it had a unique role to play in world history.
American Exceptionalism was rooted in the country’s history, geography, and political system. Proponents of this belief argued that the United States, with its democratic ideals, entrepreneurial spirit, and frontier mentality, represented a new and distinct form of society. They saw the country as a model for the rest of the world, and believed that its expansion was not only inevitable but also beneficial for the advancement of civilization.
This belief in American Exceptionalism fueled a sense of national pride and confidence, leading Americans to view themselves as pioneers of progress and prosperity. It also provided a justification for the annexation of new territories and the displacement of indigenous peoples, as it was seen as the rightful extension of American influence and values.
Throughout the 19th century, American Exceptionalism was used to justify territorial expansion, including the acquisition of lands such as Texas, Oregon, and California. It also justified the idea of “Manifest Destiny” itself – the belief that the United States was fated to stretch from coast to coast, bringing its unique brand of democracy and civilization with it.
Key Points:
- American Exceptionalism held that the United States was inherently different and superior to other nations, with a unique role to play in world history.
- It fueled a sense of national pride and confidence, leading Americans to view themselves as pioneers of progress and prosperity.
- This belief provided a justification for the annexation of new territories and the displacement of indigenous peoples, as it was seen as the rightful extension of American influence and values.
Conclusion
In summary, Manifest Destiny was not just a single belief but a combination of several beliefs that fueled the expansion of the United States. Divine Providence and American Exceptionalism played crucial roles in shaping the ideology of Manifest Destiny, providing moral, spiritual, and nationalistic justifications for westward expansion.
These beliefs helped to shape the course of American history, driving the country to acquire and settle new territories, and ultimately expand from coast to coast. While Manifest Destiny was a powerful force in the 19th century, it also led to conflict, displacement, and the subjugation of indigenous peoples. Understanding the role of Divine Providence and American Exceptionalism in Manifest Destiny is essential for comprehending the complex legacy of westward expansion in the United States.
