Directions: Read the definition of manifest destiny, and then answer the questions
that follow.
Manifest Destiny: The obvious fate to conquer land all the
way to the Pacific Ocean in order to spread democracy.
The definition of Manifest Destiny says it was "obvious fate" for
the Americans to expand west.
1) Speculate what the “common man” thought about the idea that it was their
"obvious fate" for the Americans to expand westward.
2) Compare and contrast how the American expansion affected U.S. citizens with
Native Americans.
The word "conquer" means to take control by military force.
3) If it was the Americans obvious fate to conquer land, assess whether the
Americans would be willing to fight to expand?
4) Who do you think they will go to war with in order to achieve “Manifest
Destiny”?
Manifest Destiny says the Americans wanted to expand westward to
spread democracy.
5) In your own words, describe what “democracy” means.
6) Convince an American from the 19th century why they need democracy.