Lecture Notes on U.S. Territorial Expansion and Foreign Policy

Summary:

Today's lecture in Heimler's History covers the U.S. government's efforts to gain more territory and establish a stronger presence in the Western Hemisphere during the early 19th century. The main focus is on how and why American foreign policy developed and expanded over time, including significant events like the Treaty of Ghent, the acquisition of Florida, and the Monroe Doctrine.

Key Points:

1. Treaty of Ghent (1814):

Ended the War of 1812 between the U.S. and Britain.
Left the status of Canada unclear.

2. Territorial Negotiations:

James Monroe Presidency: Took office in 1817.
John Quincy Adams' Role: Negotiated with Britain to establish the U.S.-Canada border along the 49th parallel and set up a joint occupation of the Oregon Territory for ten years.

3. Situation in Florida:

Previously owned by Spain, faced administrative challenges.
Seminole Indians and runaway slaves conducted cross-border raids into U.S. territory.
Monroe’s Action: Sent General Andrew Jackson to Florida in 1817 to stop the raids, with strict instructions to avoid engagement with Spanish forces.
Jackson’s military actions led to the eventual purchase of Florida from Spain through the Adams-Onis Treaty in 1819.

4. Adams-Onis Treaty:

Formalized the sale of Florida to the U.S.
Defined the borders between U.S. and Spanish territories in the West.

5. Monroe Doctrine (1823):

A significant policy declaration aimed at limiting European intervention in the Western Hemisphere.
Asserted that any problems in the Americas would be handled by the U.S., without European military involvement.
Symbolically expressed as the U.S. marking its territory in the Western Hemisphere.

6. Growth of U.S. Trade:

By the late 1820s, increased trade relationships with newly independent nations like Mexico, Columbia, Chile, Peru, and Argentina.
U.S. also boosted trade across the Pacific, notably with China for porcelains and silks.
Speculations on acquiring Pacific Islands for further trade advantages.

7. Future Topics:

Upcoming discussions will cover the Market Revolution, which was heavily influenced by increased demand for U.S. goods and changes in manufacturing.

8. Conclusion:

Today's topic provided insights into the U.S.'s strategic territorial negotiations and foreign policies that highlighted the early efforts to establish dominance in the Western Hemisphere and boost economic growth through trade.

Make sure to review the specifics of each treaty and doctrine discussed today, as they are pivotal to understanding the evolution of U.S. foreign policy during this era.