What ideology stated that the U.S. had a divine right to expand its territory and influence?

The ideology that proclaimed the belief in a divine right to expand U.S. territory and influence is known as Manifest Destiny. This concept emerged in the 19th century and was rooted in the conviction that it was America's destiny, ordained by God, to spread democracy and capitalism across the North American continent. Proponents of Manifest Destiny argued that the expansion of American territory was not only beneficial but also an inevitable and righteous endeavor, reflecting a sense of national mission.

Manifest Destiny played a significant role in justifying a range of territorial acquisitions and policies, including the annexation of Texas, the Oregon Trail migrations, and the conflict with Mexico, which resulted in the acquisition of vast territories in the Southwest. This ideology influenced American attitudes toward expansion, prompting the belief that such actions were not merely politically or economically advantageous but also part of a moral obligation to spread their way of life.