LAD #8: Monroe Doctrine

The Monroe Doctrine states three major ideas. First, it conveys that European countries cannot colonize in any of the Americas: North, Central, or South. Second, only if Americans' rights are in danger or threat will the U.S. go into, or be involved with European affairs (this enforces Washington's rule of foreign policy.) Third, the U.S. will consider any attempt at colonization a threat to its national security. The doctrine was issued by President James Monroe during his seventh annual State of the Union address to Congress. This was a defining moment in the foreign policy of the United States. "It is still the true policy of the United States to leave the parties to themselves, in hope that other powers will pursue the same course." James Monroe, when saying this, meant that because of the United States' ability to keep balance and individual rights among its citizens, hopefully it will encourage other countries to do so, as well.