STANDARD WHII.7d
Monroe Doctrine
Objective
The student will demonstrate knowledge of the Latin American
revolutions of the nineteenth century by
d) assessing the impact of the Monroe Doctrine.
Essential Understandings
After the American Revolution, the United States wished to prevent
foreign interference in America. The Monroe Doctrine was issued in
1823, alerting European powers that the American continents should not
be considered for any future colonization.
Essential Questions
How did the Monroe Doctrine impact revolutions in Latin America?
Essential Knowledge
Monroe Doctrine was issued by American President, James Monroe
in 1823.
 Latin American nations were acknowledged to be independent.
 The United States would regard as a threat to its own peace and
safety any attempt by European powers to impose their system on
any independent state in the Western Hemisphere.
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STANDARD WHII.7d
Monroe Doctrine
The United States and Latin America
Long before the United States had a real economic interest in Latin America, it was aware that
its security depended on that of its southern neighbors.
The Monroe Doctrine Most of the Latin American colonies had gained their independence by
the early 1800s. But their position was not secure. Many Latin Americans feared that European
countries would try to re-conquer the new republics. The United States, a young nation itself,
feared this too. In 1823, therefore, President James Monroe issued what came to be called the
Monroe Doctrine. This document stated that “the American continents . . . are henceforth
not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers.” Britain
was Latin America’s largest trading partner. It agreed to back the Monroe Doctrine with its
powerful navy. Until 1898, though, the United States did little to enforce the Monroe Doctrine.
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