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The belief or ideal that the United States was destined (or commanded by God) to expand westward of the original thirteen colonies.

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While not everyone in the U.S. at the time believed that God had commanded them to expand westward, most at least agreed with this sentiment. Many presidents supported the idea of Manifest Destiny and many common folk were genuinely excited about the idea. I believe that this fostered a sense of pride in the country and the "American Spirit" we hear so much about today.

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One could argue that this idea of Manifest Destiny improved the economy in many ways. First of all, the addition of new lands provided the opportunity for more agriculture and therefore for more exporting. Also, many merchants went out west to satisfy the needs of new settlers, making expansion more profitable than ever.

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3) Manifest Destiny was the answer to a growing population

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3) Manifest Destiny was the answer to a growing population

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At the time, the United States was struggling with the influx of new people in the country. The westward expansion was a lifesaver as it allowed space for the ever-growing amount of people looking for a new beginning.

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One easily recognizable negative aspect of Manifest Destiny is the amount of conflicts it caused. Most of the land that the Americans were expanding into was already claimed by others. Whether it be Native Americans or other countries, the previous occupants were not happy about the intruders. Manifest Destiny caused many bloody conflicts and even full-on wars such as the Mexican-American War.

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https://www.britannica.com/event/Manifest-Destiny#ref325724

https://flowpsychology.com/10-pros-and-cons-of-manifest-destiny/

http://visionlaunch.com/pros-and-cons-of-manifest-destiny/

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As mentioned, the American westward expansion displaced the rightful owners of the land. One of the biggest groups affected by this were the Native Americans. The idea of Manifest Destiny was behind many atrocities committed against the Native Americans such as the infamous Trail of Tears. The literal and metaphorical scars caused by this have lasted until present day.

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Along with the expansion of territory, came the expansion of slavery in the country. While slavery was divided pretty much evenly in the thirteen colonies, every time more territory was added there was a question posed. "Would this be a free state or a slave state?" Many times, they became slave states.

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This idea of Manifest Destiny resulted in many good and bad consequences. However, I do not think that benefits were worth the damage done. On the other hand, I cannot imagine what the United States would be like if this great expansion did not occur. Either way, I do not think the United States had the authority to take over land that did not belong to them.