What term describes the belief that the United States was destined to expand from the Atlantic to the Pacific?

The belief that the United States was destined to expand from the Atlantic to the Pacific is known as Manifest Destiny. This term encapsulates the idea that it was the divine right and duty of the United States to spread its democracy, culture, and economic systems across the North American continent. Manifest Destiny was a driving force behind many historical events in the 19th century, including the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Trail migration, and the Mexican-American War, all of which contributed to the significant territorial expansion of the United States during this period.

This ideology conveyed a sense of mission and justification for expansion, often downplaying the impact on Indigenous peoples and other nations. It played a crucial role in shaping American identity and policy, making it a foundational concept in understanding U.S. history during this time.