Manifest Destiny Research Paper

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Pros and Cons of Manifest Destiny

The term manifest destiny was first used by John L. O'Sullivan in 1840 to describe what most Americans at the time believed was their mission from God—to expand the United States from coast to coast. Along with expanding their territory, they should spread their institutions and traditions in order to liberate and enlighten other civilizations, such as the Indians and Hispanics who were considered inferior therefore deserving cultivation. By the end of the 19th century, expansionists believed that the Anglo-Saxon heritage made America supremely fit, so it was the nation's duty to spread its influence even beyond its continental boundaries to the Far East, Asia, and the Caribbean and Pacific regions.

While …show more content…
It provides opportunities to discover and gain valuable resources found in the newly acquired land. The gold rush of 1849 in America happened during the Manifest Destiny era.

5. It allows the spread of freedom.

Through Manifest Destiny, the United States also saw the chance to spread the American sense of freedom. They could teach other populations about their democratic, religious, and cultural ways.

List of Cons of Manifest Destiny

1. It takes away someone's property to give it to someone else.

People who have been living and building their homes and communities in a specific area of land can just be forcibly pushed out so the new settlers can live there.

2. It seeds dissent.

When you take away something from someone without his consent, you will stir negativity. He will naturally feel angry and will find a way to reclaim what is his.

3. It causes violence and war.

Critics of Manifest Destiny argued that the ideology resulted to the civil war and war between countries. Native Indians who were defiant in not giving up their land and culture resolved to bloodshed and conflict.

4. It leads to the oppression of

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