How can religion influence the development of an empire?

Religion can greatly influence the development and growth of an empire.

Explanation:

Religion is perhaps one of the most important aspects that define the identity of a group of people. All the nations in the world share the same need for believing in something or someone superior to whom they ask for protection and guidance. Otherwise, they would feel lost, not know which way to go and would not be able to develop. This was no exception for the growing empires in history because religion was what kept their people together and enabled them to move forward. The British, for example, believed that God had given them the right to occupy the newly discovered lands of North America and expand their empire (Manifest Destiny), and so they did.  However, religion must be regulated by other institutions such as government so as to prevent abuse of power.