Manifest Destiny: Historical Perspectives

Matthew Pinsker discusses the concept of Manifest Destiny, a term coined by John L. Sullivan in 1845, which was used to justify American territorial expansion. Although it was not an official policy, it became a controversial topic, with critics associating it with the spread of slavery. The term faded but reemerged in the 1890s during America's push to become a global power. Sullivan's role was largely forgotten until historians later recognized his contribution. Manifest Destiny remains a debated topic today.

Who coined the term 'Manifest Destiny'?

• Thomas Jefferson

• John L. O'Sullivan

• Andrew Jackson

• James K. Polk

What did the term 'Manifest Destiny' originally imply about America's future?

• America should form alliances with Europe.

• America should focus on industrial growth.

• America was destined to become a continental power.

• America should remain isolated.

What was the primary criticism of Manifest Destiny during its early years?

• It was thought to encourage peace with Native Americans.

• It was viewed as a code for spreading slavery.

• It was seen as a way to spread democracy.

• It was considered a means to promote industrialization.

What was the initial public reaction to the term 'Manifest Destiny'?

• It was widely accepted and praised.

• It was only used in private discussions.

• It was ignored by the public.

• It was mostly used by critics to ridicule expansionism.

What did some Manifest Destiny advocates want beyond the existing U.S. territories?

• Only the Caribbean islands

• All of Mexico and Canada

• Just the annexation of Texas

• Only the Oregon Territory

In which decade did Manifest Destiny experience a revival?

• 1840s

• 1860s

• 1890s

• 1920s

What event is associated with the revival of Manifest Destiny in the 1890s?

• The Spanish-American War

• The Civil War

• The War of 1812

• The Mexican-American War

How did the perception of Manifest Destiny change by the 1890s?

• It was thought to be a failure.

• It was seen as a domestic policy only.

• It was viewed as a means to expand globally.

• It was considered irrelevant.

What was ironic about John L. O'Sullivan's death in relation to Manifest Destiny?

• He was celebrated as a national hero.

• He became a wealthy politician.

• His role in coining the term was forgotten.

• He was imprisoned for his beliefs.

What was the fate of the term 'Manifest Destiny' after the 19th century?

• It was revived and became more popular.

• It became a permanent part of political discourse.

• It was only used in academic circles.

• It was forgotten entirely.