John Louis O Sullivan Annexation Essay

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John Louis O'Sullivan, a prominent editor and columnist in 1845, supported the rising American belief in manifest destiny, the idea that the United States was destined by God to expand its territory and spread their culture and ideas across the North American continent. In his essay "Annexation," O'Sullivan had advocated for the annexation of Texas into the United States and predicted the eventual acquisition of California. Through his writing, O'Sullivan expressed expansionist sentiment that drove American territorial desire during the 19th century. In the beginning of O'Sullivan’s writing he celebrated the annexation of Texas, stating “checking the fulfillment of our manifest destiny”. He describes Texas not merely as a geographical space but as an integral part of the nation, emphasizing the symbolic significance of its …show more content…

O'Sullivan portrays Mexico as "imbecile and distracted," incapable of governing distant provinces like California, which he predicts will soon declare independence and potentially join the United States. He describes the ongoing migration of Americans to California, armed with the tools of civilization such as "schools and colleges, courts and representative halls." O'Sullivan predicts that California's population will assert its right to self-government and independence, either as a separate entity or as part of the United States. O'Sullivan discusses the potential construction of a transcontinental railroad to connect the Pacific coast with the eastern states, facilitating the integration of California into the Union. He expressed the economic and strategic benefits of having them in place, envisioning a future where representatives from Oregon and California can travel to Washington with ease. O'Sullivan highlights the role of technology, such as the telegraph, in connecting large distances within the

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