The years 1840 to 1890 were a period of great growth
for the United States. It was during this time period that
the United states came to the conclusion that it had a
manifest destiny, that is, it was commanded by god to someday
occupy the entire North American continent. One of the most
ardent followers of this belief was President James K. Polk.
He felt that the United States had the right to whatever
amount of territory it chose to, and in doing this the
United States was actually doing a favor for the land it
seized, by introducing it to the highly advanced culture and
way of life of Americans. Shortly after his election he
annexed Texas. This added a great amount of land to the
United States, but more was to follow. The Oregon Territory
became a part of the United States is 1846, followed by the
Mexican Cession in 1848 and the Gadsden Purchase in 1853. At
this point the United States had accomplished its manifest
destiny, it......
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