Table of ContentsIntroduction: Historical Background: Expansionist Ideology: Displacement of Native Americans: Conflict with Mexico: Impact on Native Cultures: Conclusion: Introduction: Manifest Destiny Was a Belief of the 19th century according to which the United States was destined to expand across the entire North American continent, from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. This expansionist ideology played an important role in shaping American politics and attitudes during the 1800s. While some argue that Manifest Destiny was simply a natural and justifiable expansion of American territory, others see it as a form aggressive imperialism. This essay will examine the arguments on both sides and ultimately conclude whether Manifest Destiny can be characterized as aggressive imperialism. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Historical Context: To understand the debate around Manifest Destiny, it is crucial to examine the historical context in which it emerged. In the early 1800s, the United States had recently gained independence from Great Britain and was experiencing rapid westward expansion. The Louisiana Purchase in 1803 doubled the size of the nation, and Americans began to envision a future in which their country would stretch from coast to coast. This vision was further fueled by the belief in American exceptionalism and the desire to spread democracy and civilization. Expansionist Ideology: Proponents of Manifest Destiny argue that it was not aggressive imperialism but rather a natural extension of the American spirit of adventure and progress. They argue that the United States had the right to expand its territory and provide indigenous populations with the benefits of American civilization. They highlight the economic opportunities offered by expansion, such as access to valuable resources and new markets. Additionally, expansionists believed that the United States had a moral duty to spread democracy and protect its citizens by expanding its borders. Displacement of Native Americans: One of the strongest arguments against Manifest Destiny as aggressive imperialism is the displacement and mistreatment of Native American populations. As the United States expanded westward, Native Americans were forcibly removed from their ancestral lands through treaties, military force, and the infamous Trail of Tears. This brutal treatment of indigenous people undermines the idea that Manifest Destiny was a benevolent movement. It is difficult to argue that the forced removal of Native Americans can be justified as anything other than an aggressive, imperialist act. Conflict with Mexico: Another point of contention is the Mexican-American War, which was a direct result of American expansionist ambitions. The annexation of Texas in 1845 and the subsequent border conflict led to armed conflict between the United States and Mexico. Critics argue that the war was an aggressive act of imperialism, with the United States seeking to acquire Mexican territory. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the war, allowed the United States to acquire a large amount of land, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah and some parts of Colorado and Wyoming. Impact on Indigenous Cultures: The impact of Manifest Destiny on Indigenous cultures cannot be ignored. As the United States expanded westward, Native American cultures were disrupted,.