What was the underlying belief behind the concept of "Manifest Destiny" as it related to imperialism?

The underlying belief behind the concept of "Manifest Destiny" as it related to imperialism was primarily that the United States had a divine right to expand its territory across North America. This belief, which emerged in the 19th century, was rooted in the notion that it was the nation's destiny, ordained by God, to spread democracy and civilization. Proponents saw westward expansion as both a right and a responsibility, framing it as a moral imperative to cultivate and bring progress to what they perceived as "less developed" areas.

This concept justified not only territorial acquisition but also the displacement of Native American peoples and the annexation of various territories. The idea of divine sanction provided a powerful ideological justification for actions that would otherwise be viewed as imperialistic in nature, emphasizing a perceived superiority of American culture and governance.

In contrast, other options highlight different motivations for expansionism, such as the necessity of economic benefits or regulatory practices in colonialism, which do not capture the essence of the belief that Manifest Destiny embodied the sense of a God-given right. Additionally, the notion of expansion leading to increased democratic governance reflects a result of the belief rather than its foundational ideology. Thus, the correct answer encapsulates the core sentiment of Manifest Destiny as an ideological