James
Monroe |
The
American Revolution and the French Revolution inspired a generation
of young Creoles in Latin America. Most countries achieved
independence from Spain and Portugal in the early 1820s in
a series of revolutions. In 1823 the United States asserted
a bold foreign policy, the Monroe Doctrine, declaring a special
interest in the western hemisphere.
In
1822 President James Monroe had recognized the new countries
of Latin America. The young nation supported self-determination
and indeed the country was founded on this principle.
The
conservative monarchies of Prussia, Russia and Austria had
been concerned about revolution ever since the French Revolution
in 1789. In 1815 in a reactionary move, they formed the Holy
Alliance to cooperate in stemming the tide of change.
They resolved to intervene in countries where popular revolutions
were imminent. After the successful revolutions in Latin America,
they announced that they would assist Spain in restoring its
colonies.
Many
felt that it was unnecessary for the United States to act.
Great Britain was also opposed to the restoration of the colonies,
and could be relied upon to protect its trade interests in
Latin America. However, Secretary of State John Quincy Adams
urged bolder action: "It would be more candid, as well
as more dignified, to avow four principles explicitly to Russia
and France, than to come in as a cock-boat in the wake of
the British man-of-war." And so Monroe resolved to explicitly
declare the American position in Latin America. No attempt
to restore the colonies would be tolerated.
President
James Monroe, in the annual message to Congress, announced
the doctrine on December 2, 1823.
"The
American continents, by
the free and independent condition which they have assured
and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects
for future colonization by any European powers. 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."
full
text
The
Monroe Doctrine 1823
Part
of Uncle Sam Plants the Flag: Imperialism
in Latin America exhibit |
