Influence of Manifest Destiny upon James K Polk

I am typing a five page term paper for my 400 level history class concerning the way Manifest Destiny influenced our eleventh President James K Polk in his decision to declare war upon Mexico in 1846. However, I cannot find enough info to elaborate on to make my paper five pages. I also am not sure exactly where to begin. I feel as if I am stuck. Any ideas?

Greetings!

Perhaps you could start by examining the origins of Manifest Destiny: where the concept came from, what policies were influenced by it, whether it was an overall healthy policy for the nation to follow. You could also perhaps expand a little on the war with Mexico, not only the influence of Manifest Destiny but any other influences which came into play, and what the ultimate effect of the war on our country was. Be sure to establish your thesis up front, and don't go too far off track, but when talking about historical events, a little background can be a good thing (not to mention a space-filler!). :-)

I hope this helps!

Thanks,

Sarah, EssayForum.com