What did the term "Manifest Destiny" refer to in the 19th century?

The term "Manifest Destiny" in the 19th century referred to the widely held belief that it was the divine right and destiny of the United States to expand its territory across the North American continent. Advocates of Manifest Destiny believed that this expansion was not only justified but also preordained, often framing it as a mission to spread democracy and civilization. This ideology played a significant role in shaping U.S. policy and behavior during the era, leading to territorial acquisitions such as the Louisiana Purchase, the annexation of Texas, and the Oregon Trail migration.

The belief in Manifest Destiny was also used to rationalize conflicts and wars, including the Mexican-American War, as supporters argued that it was America's responsibility to uplift neighboring territories and peoples. This notion was deeply intertwined with ideas about American exceptionalism, suggesting that the United States had a unique role in the world. Understanding Manifest Destiny is essential for grasping the motivations behind U.S. expansionism and its impact on indigenous populations and neighboring nations during the 19th century.