Final answer:
Manifest Destiny was a belief held by many Americans in the 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting their desire to expand the territory of the United States. Recent events show a shift in how Americans view Manifest Destiny, with a greater awareness of its negative consequences and a focus on diplomacy and respect for other nations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Manifest Destiny was a belief held by many Americans in the 19th and early 20th centuries that the United States was destined to expand its territory from coast to coast and spread its democratic principles. This idea was often used to justify westward expansion and the acquisition of new territories, such as Texas, Oregon, and California. Recent events that reflect American ideas about Manifest Destiny include the expansion of American influence in the Pacific, such as the annexation of Hawaii and the establishment of military bases in the region.
The way citizens and politicians view the principles of Manifest Destiny now is different from how they were viewed in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, there is a greater awareness and understanding of the negative consequences of westward expansion, such as the displacement and mistreatment of indigenous peoples and the negative impact on the environment. There is also a recognition of the importance of respecting the sovereignty of other nations and promoting diplomacy rather than unilateral expansion.