William Walker, an American filibuster and adventurer, set sail from San Francisco with about 60 men in May to conquer Nicaragua, driven by the philosophy of Manifest Destiny that advocated for American territorial expansion. The backdrop of this expedition was characterized by political turmoil in Nicaragua, where various factions were vying for power. Walker viewed this chaos as an opportunity to establish a pro-American regime that could secure trade routes and access to the Pacific. His band of men were primarily composed of adventurers, mercenaries, and settlers enticed by the promise of wealth and land. The group embarked on a perilous journey that reflected the adventurous spirit of many Americans during the mid-19th century. Walker's campaign was not merely a quest for personal gain; he aimed to replicate the successes of earlier filibusters, taking advantage of the geopolitical dynamics in Central America. His actions would eventually lead to an international incident, as they were not only a strain on U.S.-Nicaraguan relations, but also a point of contention in the broader context of American imperial ambitions. Walker's vision of establishing a new American colony in Nicaragua captured the imagination of many during this era of exploration and conquest.