Which concept expresses the belief in the United States' expansion from coast to coast?

Manifest Destiny is the concept that embodies the belief in the United States' destined expansion across the North American continent, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. This idea emerged in the 19th century and was rooted in the notion that the expansion of settlers and their institutions was both justified and inevitable. Proponents believed that expansion was not only a right but also a divine mandate, which played a significant role in the westward movement, influencing policies and actions such as the Louisiana Purchase, the annexation of Texas, and the Oregon Trail.

This belief was also tied to a sense of American superiority and a mission to spread democracy and civilization, contributing to the national ethos during that period. It directly shaped many historical events and conflicts, including the Mexican-American War, which was fought partially under the justification of Manifest Destiny.

The other concepts, while they may relate to national identity or expansion in a broader sense, do not specifically encapsulate the idea of continental expansion as clearly as Manifest Destiny does. For example, American Exceptionalism refers to the belief that the United States has a unique place in history, while Nationalism is a sense of pride in one’s country that can encompass many aspects, not just territorial expansion. The War of 1812, while