Manifest Destiny was a dream of expansion, a belief that it was destiny that Americans would spread westward. After the war of 1812 Americans were confident and had a strong sense of nationalism. This "Era of Good Feelings" was exemplified by Americans showing more loyalty to the federal government. Americans began to believe that it was destiny to stretch from sea to sea. Most territorial growth that took place up until 1853 proved to involve some conflict.

The United States doubled in size with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. This land was purchased from Napoleon for $15 million dollars to help pay off France`s war debts. Americans enjoyed the thought of more land and more opportunity to expand. In this expansion it was discovered that the land was inhabited by Indians. There wasn't a war between the Indians and Americans but it is without a doubt said that there was conflict...