Monroe Doctrine
A United States policy of opposing European colonialism in the Americas
Real World Example
The Monroe Doctrine, introduced by President James Monroe in 1823, was a significant policy declaring that the Americas were off-limits to new European colonization. At the time, many Latin American countries were gaining independence, and the U.S. wanted to prevent European powers from trying to take control again. This doctrine was important because it asserted the U.S. as a protector of the Western Hemisphere, promoting peace and independence in the region. Today, the Monroe Doctrine still matters as it set a precedent for U.S. involvement in international affairs, shaping America’s foreign policy for years. For example, when you hear about the U.S. government helping other countries to remain independent or resolving conflicts in the Americas, this is partly because of ideas rooted in the Monroe Doctrine.
