An 1845 article called “Annexation” was the first appearance of this 2-word phrase implying inevitability

The Final Jeopardy clue for Thursday, May 29, 2025, fell under the category “Phrase Origins.” The clue read: An 1845 article called “Annexation” was the first appearance of this 2-word phrase implying inevitability.

What is Manifest Destiny?

This phrase, now deeply embedded in American historical discourse, first appeared in print in an article published by The United States Magazine and Democratic Review. The author, journalist and editor John L. O’Sullivan, argued for the annexation of Texas into the United States. In making his case, O’Sullivan wrote of America’s “manifest destiny to overspread the continent allotted by Providence.” The phrase captured a growing belief at the time that U.S. expansion westward across North America was both justified and inevitable.

Origins and Meaning of “Manifest Destiny”

The term “manifest destiny” was coined in the context of a specific political goal—Texas annexation—but quickly grew into a broader ideological framework that shaped American policy throughout the 19th century. O’Sullivan’s article was not just a defense of territorial expansion; it was an articulation of a larger national purpose. By labeling expansion as the country’s manifest destiny, the concept framed U.S. growth as a moral imperative sanctioned by divine authority.

Although it originated in a specific historical moment, the phrase took on a life of its own. Within a few years, it was being used to justify a wide range of territorial acquisitions and foreign policy ambitions, from the Oregon Territory to California and beyond. As a piece of rhetoric, “manifest destiny” proved to be both influential and controversial, playing a central role in debates over the Mexican-American War and American imperialism.

Cultural and Political Impact

By the mid-19th century, “manifest destiny” had become a rallying cry for expansionists, even as others raised concerns about its implications. Supporters viewed it as a unifying idea that advanced democracy, commerce, and civilization. Critics, however, warned that it promoted aggressive nationalism and enabled the displacement of Indigenous peoples and other populations.

Despite these conflicting views, the phrase helped define a critical era in U.S. history. It offered a justification for the nation’s westward push and influenced government policy, military decisions, and public opinion. The annexation of Texas in 1845, the Oregon Treaty with Britain in 1846, and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which followed the Mexican-American War, all occurred within a few years of the term’s appearance and were often framed in its ideological terms.

A Phrase with Lasting Legacy

Over time, “manifest destiny” has been studied and debated by historians, political scientists, and cultural commentators. While it no longer holds the same rhetorical power in modern political discourse, it remains a key concept in understanding 19th-century American history. It represents the ways in which language can be used to justify far-reaching actions and shape national identity.

Today, the term also serves as a lens through which to examine the consequences of expansionism, particularly in relation to Native American history and U.S. relations with neighboring countries. The dual nature of the phrase—at once visionary and problematic—continues to make it a subject of reflection and critique.

Jeopardy Context and Educational Value

In typical Jeopardy fashion, the clue challenged contestants to recognize not only a specific historical moment but also a larger concept with significant ramifications. The inclusion of the article title “Annexation” offered a subtle hint for players familiar with the events of 1845 and the debates surrounding Texas statehood. More than just a test of trivia, the clue invited a deeper understanding of how language has shaped historical movements and national ideologies.

This Final Jeopardy response showcased how a simple phrase can encapsulate complex historical forces. “Manifest destiny” was not just a passing slogan—it was a transformative idea that left a permanent imprint on the American landscape.