The concept of Manifest Destiny was the belief that the United States was destined to expand across the North American continent. The Oregon Trail was a major route used by thousands of settlers moving westward during the 1830s-1860s.

Key events include:

• 1836: The first large group of settlers begins their journey along the Oregon Trail.
• 1843: The famous 'Great Migration' of settlers heads west, spurred by the belief in Manifest Destiny.
• 1846: The Oregon Treaty establishes the border between the US and Britain at the 49th parallel.
• 1869: The completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad makes travel easier and faster.

These events highlight the movement and expansion driven by the idea that Americans had a divine right to settle the West.