The idea that the United States should grow all the way to the Pacific Ocean was called the “Manifest Destiny” or “Divine Destiny.” It was based on the idea of establishing on earth moral dignity and salvation. Colonists believed that the Providence had ordained the United States to occupy as much land across North America as possible. They basically believed that the mission of the United States was to redeem and remake the west by high example. In reality, a complex mix of political, social, and economic factors fueled American expansionist in the 1840s. Some saw profitable economic opportunities in the vast west and superb Pacific Coast ports.