The Manifest Destiny

The term was first used in 1845 by John O'Sullivan, a journalist, with regard to the annexation of Texas to the Union. He felt that it was America's manifest destiny to overspread the continent allotted by Providence for the free development of our multiplying millions. This strong belief especially among the Democrats came to be termed as The Manifest. Destiny Though it was not a government policy, it did have an influence which led to the passing of the Homestead Act of 1841 by President Lincoln allowed people to own about 160 acres of land for a small sum. The requirement for this not complex and hence people began owing large pieces of land without much difficulty. The supporters of this concept felt that the expansion was evident and that it was a part of destiny. To promote this concept advertisements and paintings were used to tell successful tales of people who moved west .People moved west leaving their homes in search of inexpensive land and more space. The discovery of Gold in Sutter's Mill in 1848, promoted the move to California for a better living. People living in the crowded east were lured west with promises of inexpensive land and open spaces.However this idea did not stand too long as it was denounced in the mid 50s.