Did You Know? Manifest Destiny

Manifest destiny was a 19th-century belief that the US had a divine right to expand westward. It justified land acquisitions in Oregon, Texas, Mexico, and California, often involving conflict. Coined by John L. O'Sullivan, the term was used to promote US expansion. After the Civil War, the concept extended to Alaska, Hawaii, and beyond, but waned post-World War I as the US adopted isolationism.

What was the primary belief behind manifest destiny in the 19th century?

• The United States should remain isolated.

• The United States should form alliances with European countries.

• The United States should focus on industrialization.

• The United States had a divine right to expand westward.

Which territories were acquired by the United States under the pretext of manifest destiny?

• Alaska and Hawaii

• Florida and Cuba

• Canada and Greenland

• Oregon, Texas, Mexico, and California

Who coined the term 'manifest destiny'?

• Andrew Jackson

• John L. O'Sullivan

• James Monroe

• Thomas Jefferson

How did manifest destiny influence American actions after the Civil War?

• It led to the abolition of slavery.

• It encouraged the United States to purchase Alaska and annex Hawaii.

• It caused the United States to focus on internal development only.

• It resulted in the United States forming a union with Canada.

What shift in American policy occurred after World War I concerning manifest destiny?

• The United States adopted a policy of isolationism.

• The United States continued to expand aggressively.

• The United States focused on colonizing Africa.

• The United States became more involved in European politics.