Monroe Doctrine; December 2 1823
James Monroe's seventh annual message to Congress included a brief discussion regarding a proposal made by the Russian Government similar to that of Great Britain to negotiate the rights and interests of the two foreign countries in regards to the United States. The latter of the three had been discussing the role and interests of being involved with the other two nations, but also made sure to point out that America would serve as the breeding ground for the colonization by the Europeans.
The Doctrine brought up the efforts made by Spain and Portugal to improve the lives of their people, and while the results of these attempts differ from what they could have been, this message also makes the American people out to be "interested spectators." The Americans though, did not wish to become overly involved in foreign affairs, and while they were not involved in the European wars they were in favor of the growing liberty of the Spanish/Portuguese. Monroe claimed that the only time America should ever take part in a foreign war was when they were either invaded or exceedingly insulted. This doctrine stated that the United States owed it to the re-prospering countries to create friendly ties with other nations so long as they did not impede America's liberty or peaceful situation. The United States should not interfere with European countries, but should not oppress the growth and development of independence and democracy in any of them either, which could result in unfriendly relations with the aforementioned nations. However, throughout the entire war, America had decided to remain neutral.
James Monroe warned that any allied powers would not be able to spread any of their political systems without threatening the American peace and happiness, and these systems ought to be met with outright indifference. The United States should have no part in controlling other countries, and they deserve to be left to their own devices, leaving examples for later nations.
No comments:
Post a Comment