A Guide to Primary Resources for U.S. History : Original Article on "Manifest Destiny," by John O'Sullivan, 1839 Cornell University Library, Making of America John O'Sullivan's article, noted for containing the first mention of "Manifest Destiny," provided a rallying point for Americans to advance the theory that the nation must engage in westward expansion. Define the term Manifest Destiny before students read the article. Find out what is already known about the term. Brainstorm words and write them on the board then construct a definition from these words. After reading the article, compare the class brainstorming to the author's description. After students have read the article, and have them list the pros and cons of Manifest Destiny, then describe how the idea could encourage Americans to move west. Has America reached its destiny as described by the article? Have students create propaganda posters encouraging people to continue westward expansion. Using visuals and words the poster is meant to focus on the benefits to the country, and American duty to explore and settle the unknown land. Before reading the article students should be told to look for one sentence that sticks out to them. Have each student take the sentence that they pick and explain its significance to America to the class.

Original Article on "Manifest Destiny," by John O'Sullivan, 1839
Cornell University Library, Making of America

Description: John O'Sullivan's article, noted for containing the first mention of "Manifest Destiny," provided a rallying point for Americans to advance the theory that the nation must engage in westward expansion.

Teaching Tips:

"Do Now" Suggestions

Define the term Manifest Destiny before students read the article. Find out what is already known about the term. Brainstorm words and write them on the board then construct a definition from these words. After reading the article, compare the class brainstorming to the author's description.
After students have read the article, and have them list the pros and cons of Manifest Destiny, then describe how the idea could encourage Americans to move west.
Has America reached its destiny as described by the article?

Suggestions for Using this Resource as Part of a Lesson

Have students create propaganda posters encouraging people to continue westward expansion. Using visuals and words the poster is meant to focus on the benefits to the country, and American duty to explore and settle the unknown land.
Before reading the article students should be told to look for one sentence that sticks out to them. Have each student take the sentence that they pick and explain its significance to America to the class.