How was American romanticism tied to the idea of manifest destiny?

The concept of manifest destiny was closely linked to American romanticism in several ways:

1. Emphasis on Individualism:

Both American romanticism and the idea of manifest destiny placed a strong emphasis on individualism and the self-reliant spirit of the American people. Romantic writers and artists celebrated the individual’s connection with nature and their unique perspectives, while manifest destiny emphasized the idea of individual rights and the freedom to pursue one's destiny.

2. Frontier Idealization:

American romanticism often idealized the frontier as a place of boundless opportunities and a symbol of freedom and adventure. The concept of manifest destiny similarly glorified the westward expansion and settlement as a way to fulfill America’s destiny and spread its values and institutions to the vast territories of the continent.

3. Sense of Mission:

Romantic writers often expressed a sense of mission and a belief in America’s exceptionalism. This sense of mission was echoed in the idea of manifest destiny, which held that the United States had a divine or moral obligation to expand its influence and spread its institutions across the continent.

4. Nationalism:

American romanticism was deeply rooted in national pride and a sense of uniqueness. The same nationalist sentiment fueled the belief in manifest destiny, which considered the expansion of the United States as a natural and inevitable process that would ultimately lead to the creation of a great and powerful nation.

5. Exploration and Discovery:

Romantic writers often celebrated the spirit of exploration and the discovery of new lands. This spirit was reflected in the westward expansion and the desire to explore and settle new territories as part of fulfilling manifest destiny.

In summary, American romanticism provided the cultural and intellectual framework that supported and justified the idea of manifest destiny. The emphasis on individualism, frontier idealization, sense of mission, nationalism, and the spirit of exploration and discovery converged to create a cultural mindset that saw westward expansion as a natural and inevitable course for the United States to fulfill its destiny as a great and exceptional nation.