Did the idea of manifest destiny actually cause events, such as the political support for territorial expansion or simply justify actions taken for other reasons?

Manifest Destiny was a concept used to justify the territorial expansion of the United States, particularly in the 19th century. It provided a moral and ideological rationale for westward expansion. While it did influence political support for territorial expansion by shaping public opinion and political discourse, it's important to note that various other factors also played roles in driving expansionist policies.

Economic interests, including the desire for more land, resources and markets along with political ambitions such as increasing the influence of the United States, were significant drivers of territorial expansion. Manifest Destiny served as a legitimizing ideology that justified these actions and while it contributed to political support for expansion, it was not the sole reason behind such actions. Other motives, including economic, geopolitical and strategic considerations, were also at play.