Overview
This lecture explains the Monroe Doctrine, its four main points, and its evolution from a U.S. foreign policy statement in 1823 to a justification for American intervention in Latin America.
Background and Purpose of the Monroe Doctrine
- In the early 19th century, the U.S. feared European powers would try to create new colonies in the Western Hemisphere.
- Russia, Spain, and France were considered potential threats due to their colonial interests in the Americas.
- President James Monroe issued the Monroe Doctrine in 1823 to prevent European interference and avoid conflict.
Main Points of the Monroe Doctrine
- The U.S. would not interfere in European conflicts.
- The U.S. would not interfere with existing European colonies in the Western Hemisphere.
- European powers were not to establish new colonies in the Western Hemisphere.
- Any European attempt to control nations in the Western Hemisphere would be seen as a hostile act by the U.S.
Early Impact and Later Evolution
- The Monroe Doctrine initially had little global effect because the U.S. lacked military strength to enforce it.
- By the early 20th century, as the U.S. became a superpower, the Doctrine gained significance.
The Roosevelt Corollary and U.S. Interventions
- The Roosevelt Corollary (1904) expanded the Monroe Doctrine, declaring the U.S. an "international police power" in the Western Hemisphere.
- This change allowed the U.S. to intervene in Latin America, shaping decades of future policy and actions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Monroe Doctrine — A U.S. policy (1823) opposing new European colonization in the Western Hemisphere.
- Roosevelt Corollary — A 1904 addition to the Monroe Doctrine stating the U.S. could intervene in Latin America as an international police power.
- Western Hemisphere — The part of the world comprising North and South America.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the four main points of the Monroe Doctrine for possible exam questions.
- Read further about U.S. interventions in Latin America in the early 20th century.