Manifest Destiny manifest: clear or obvious destiny: future or fate

John Gast, American Progress, 1872 Question to students: What do you see in this painting?

Manifest Destiny: -Belief that the United States would inevitably expand westward to the Pacific Ocean and into Mexican territory

Map of the United States, 1872

Contemporary Map of the 1816 United States

John Melish, Map of the U. S John Melish, Map of the U.S. with the contiguous British and Spanish Possessions,1816

Melish’s comments on his 1816 map of the United States To present the country this way was desirable . . . The map shows at a glance the whole extent of the United States territory from sea to sea. In tracing the probable expansion of the human race from east to west, the mind finds an agreeable resting place on its western limits. The view is complete and leaves nothing to be wished for. It also adds to the beauty and symmetry of the map. Source: John Melish. Map of the United States with the contiguous British and Spanish Possessions. Philadelphia, 1816. Question for class: How does John Melish justify drawing the map as if the country stretches from sea to sea?

1. According to Melish, why did he decide to draw the map of the United States this way? He wanted to show the entire beauty of America, from sea to sea. He also wanted to show the “probable” expansion of the United States, and that there is no limit to expansion.

2. How does this relate to Manifest Destiny? It relates to Manifest Destiny because it explains that Americans believed that they had a right to expand West without question.

1. What does John O’Sullivan think America Stands for? America stands for a new beginning that separates us from the past, and connects to the future. America stands for individual freedom and the right to Vote. Also stands for progress and salvation.

2. What according to John O’Sullivan, is America’s mission? To end tyranny and stop cruel oppression, To bring peace and happiness to millions in need.

1. What do you think John O’Sullivan means by “our manifest destiny to overspread the continent allotted by Providence for the free development of our yearly multiplying millions? To make more space because the population is growing/expanding. God has given them that authority to expand.

2. Based on these two documents, how did Americans feel about expanding westward? That the American people had the authority to move westward, and that God has given them that right.

Claim (Answer the question): Americans justified Westward Expansion…… Writing response: On the back of the packet, answer the question in 1 paragraph: How did Americans Justify Westward Expansion? (5-7 sentences). Write a concluding 2nd paragraph. Paragraph 1 Claim (Answer the question): Americans justified Westward Expansion…… Evidence: Use 2 pieces of evidence from the documents Analysis: Explain how the evidence from the documents supports your claim Paragraph 2 Explain the outcome of” Manifest Destiny”: From what you know, what was the result of Americans expanding westward? Who did it affect, and how?