Westward Migration in 1800s Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Westward Migration in 1800s - Essay Example John O'Sullivan, it is considered by the United States to be a divine mission to spread and possess the whole continent for the development of liberty and self-government to which the United States is known to. Philosophically speaking, this is true. Indeed many American authorities had a strong belief that their country's freedom and ambitions are very ideal and perfect that it should be shared to other countries beyond their jurisdiction. This was actually promoted by the Young America movement headed by Franklin Pierce. Realistically speaking however, this was not the case. The otherwise divine mission became an excuse, a moral justification that inspired the origin of imperialism in forcefully occupying the lands of those who previously live in peace and abundance. Most leaders and politicians promoted territorial expansion towards the west because of the desire to acquire new lands. Acquisition of more lands does not only connote more power; it represents additional source of income and wealth. During that time, the United States were already in the process of producing goods that require raw materials. These raw materials however could not be found therein as it has not much natural resources sufficient to provide its needs.