USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Manifest Destiny was the idea that white Americans were divinely ordained to settle the entire continent of North America.

Detailed explanation-2: -The philosophy describing the necessary expansion of the nation westward was called Manifest Destiny; the belief that it was our duty to settle the continent, conquer and prosper.

Detailed explanation-3: -Gold rush and mining opportunities (silver in Nevada) The opportunity to work in the cattle industry; to be a “cowboy” Faster travel to the West by railroad; availability of supplies due to the railroad. The opportunity to own land cheaply under the Homestead Act.

Detailed explanation-4: -The term Manifest Destiny was first used in 1845 by John L. O’Sullivan, editor of the United States Magazine, and Democratic Review, in an essay on why the United States was justified in annexing Texas. He was protesting European, specifically French and British, intervention in the United States’ affairs.

Detailed explanation-5: -Before the American Civil War the idea of Manifest Destiny was used to validate continental acquisitions in the Oregon Country, Texas, New Mexico, and California. Later it was used to justify the purchase of Alaska and annexation of Hawaii.