The Monroe Doctrine is one of the most influential foreign policies made by an American President in our nation’s history. It strongly defined the principle of American exclusivity and European non-interference in North and South America. In Europe, the end of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815 marked the disintegration of the Spanish empire in the New World. Between 1815 and 1822, Argentina, Venezuela, and Chile declared their independence, and broke away from colonialism. The Monroe administration recognized Argentina, Chile, Peru, Colombia and Mexico as independent colonies in 1822. After Spain and Portugal defeated Napoleon in 1815, they made arduous efforts to reclaim their former colonies in Latin America. There was increased concern in the …show more content…
When France and Britain went to war in 1793, the Americans feared that the turmoil and violence would destroy the young American republic. Monroe learned that Napoleon Bonaparte wanted to sell the entire Louisiana territory to present day Canada. He acted quickly and signed the Louisiana purchase agreement before any other nation in order to double the size of the United States. It was the right decision at the right time. Meanwhile, French armies were sent into Spain to help King Ferdinand suppress the liberal movements while Austria conquered Naples and Piedmont. This constant turmoil further aggravated President Monroe’s worries. Concurrently, Great Britain was actively seeking new, more profitable markets in South America, therefore refraining to offer any help to Spain to regain its …show more content…
A diplomatic decision that was presented to the world at the right time during history. It emphasized United States’ decision to fight against injustice and protect the independent Western nations. President Monroe’s message to Congress, declaring opposition to European colonization in the Western Hemisphere became the cornerstone of 19th century American statesmanship. (The Monroe Doctrine: Empire and Nation in Nineteenth-Century America). The Monroe doctrine had long lasting effects on the foreign relations and served as a backdrop for important early 20th century events such as entrance into World War I, and the establishment of the League of