What does "Manifest Destiny" refer to?

Manifest Destiny refers to the belief that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was not only justified but also inevitable. This ideology emerged in the 19th century, during a time when the U.S. was experiencing significant territorial growth. Proponents of Manifest Destiny believed that it was the nation's destiny to expand its territory and spread its democratic values and way of life across North America. This concept was used to justify the annexation of territories, including Texas and the lands acquired through the Oregon Trail and the Mexican-American War.

The belief in Manifest Destiny was rooted in the idea of American exceptionalism, suggesting that the United States had a divine obligation to spread its ideals of freedom and democracy. It significantly influenced U.S. policy and expansionism, despite often leading to the displacement of Native American populations and conflicts with other nations.