John O'Sullivan Declares America's Manifest Destiny, 1845

Context

• John Louis O'Sullivan: A prominent editor and columnist.
• Manifest Destiny: A belief in the divine mission of the United States to expand and lead the world towards democracy.

Key Points

Texas and National Expansion

• Annexation of Texas:
  • O'Sullivan viewed Texas as part of the United States' national identity.
  • Described Texas as integral to the "glorious blazon of our common nationality".
  • Criticized foreign interference, especially by England and France, as attempts to limit American expansion.

Independence and Justification

• Texas Independence:
  • O'Sullivan argued Texas's independence from Mexico was both factual and rightful.
  • Stated that American settlers in Texas were invited by Mexico, thus validating U.S. claims.

California and Western Expansion

• Potential Independence of California:
  • Predicted California's detachment from Mexico due to Mexico's weak governance.
  • Highlighted the influx of Anglo-Saxon settlers as a natural progression.
  • Asserted California's right to self-government and independence based on settlement and development by its population.

Future Integration

• Union of Territories:
  • Speculated on California potentially joining the U.S. Union.
  • Emphasized the importance of a transcontinental railroad to bind the Pacific region with the Mississippi Valley.
  • Predicted rapid communication advancements (e.g., telegraph) facilitating integration.

Criticism of European Powers

• Rejection of European Influence:
  • Dismissed French ideas of "balances of power" on the American continent.
  • Criticized the lack of growth in Spanish America and foresaw the British colonies eventually joining the U.S.

Vision of the Future

• American Growth and Destiny:
  • Envisioned a future where America would become a dominant power with millions united under the American flag.
  • Anticipated a significant increase in population and expansion by 1945.

Source

• Article from "The United States Magazine and Democratic Review", Volume 17, 1845.
• Available through Google Books.

Related Topics

• Cherokee Petition Protesting Removal, 1836
• Diary of a Woman Migrating to Oregon, 1853