The Monroe Doctrine

Growing Problems in Europe After the French Revolution, many European monarchies began to fear the cries of “liberty” from across their empires. European empires such as Russia, Austria, Prussia and France ally with each other to put down European revolutions Done to keep the world “safe” from democracy. After putting down rebellions in Spain and Italy, rumors began to circulate that the next goal would be to restore Spanish colonies which had revolted and achieved Freedom to Spain.

Britain’s role This fear rolled through the United States. Americans felt if this alliance allowed Spain to retake Latin America, it would leave America surrounded by European powers once again. On the other hand, Britain was profiting from the new governments in Latin America opening up their ports to free trade. They propose to a joint opposition to European powers taking control in the Americas

America politely declines John Quincy Adams, along with Monroe, were weary of British intervention in such an endeavor. Felt that such an alliance could pull them into an unwanted war in Europe. Realizing Britain’s economic interests would force them to defend Latin America regardless of an American alliance, the U.S. declined to join with the British.

The Monroe Doctrine Instead, President Monroe released the Monroe Doctrine 2 Basic Principles: Noncolonization: Any European country seeking out new colonies would meet opposition of the American Military Nonintervention: America would not interfere with any existing colony held by a European power

The slavery debate begins With America expanding westward and to the south, slavery becomes a growing issue in American politics. New areas being admitted for statehood meant more representation. Both slave and free states wanted the west to shift the balance of power in their favor. With 11 slave states and 11 free states in 1820, the Senate vote was equal, but the House of Representatives was held by the North.

Missouri Compromise In 1820, the territory of Missouri was prime for statehood, and became the crucial factor in this debate. South feared continued tariffs on imported manufactured goods as well as the possible abolition of its “peculiar institution” Missouri Compromise: Missouri admitted as a slave state Maine, once part of Massachusetts, admitted as a slave state The rest of the Louisiana Purchase above the 36 30’ line would remain free territories.