APUSH
September 25, 2012
The Monroe Doctrine Abstract
O. The Monroe doctrine was an annual message written by James Monroe. He was the President of the United States at this time. It was presented to inform individuals about U.S. policies regarding foreign affairs and the current condition of the U.S. Monroe was also concerned and insecure about the strength of our country because the United States was so young. The doctrine is a primary source, and more specifically it was a message or address given to Congress annually. It was presented on December 2, 1823. The American people due to the liberty and freedom of the newly founded United States obtained a sense of nationalism. Insecurities in the U.S. might have cause Monroe to write about foreign affairs rather than other topics such as the economy, education, etc. The fact that this document was delivered to Congress might have changed some of the beliefs expressed in The Monroe Doctrine because Monroe wanted to please the lawmakers of this country.
P. Monroe’s main argument seems to be that the United States of America will not interfere in the internal concerns of any of its European powers, unless conditions change. This quote, “Our policy in regard to Europe, which was adopted at an early stage of the wars which have so long agitated that quarter of the globe, nevertheless remains the same, which is, not to interfere in the internal concerns of its powers,” expresses Monroe’s belief above. He wants to portray that the U.S. will not get involved with foreign affairs unless we are directly affected. Monroe’s other purpose for writing this document was to express that an effort from another country to expand in U.S. territory is a threat to our safety and peace. Monroe’s quote, “…we should consider any attempt on their part to extend their system to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous to our peace and safety,” directly expresses his belief above. He also points out that