What was the purpose of the Monroe Doctrine?

The Monroe Doctrine was a significant policy articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, primarily aimed at deterring European nations from interfering in the affairs of countries within the Western Hemisphere. At its core, the doctrine asserted that any attempts by European powers to colonize or exert influence over nations in North or South America would be viewed as acts of aggression, prompting a policy of resistance from the United States.

The context behind this assertion was rooted in the growing independence movements in Latin America and the United States' desire to prevent the re-establishment of European colonial empires in the region. The Monroe Doctrine effectively established a sphere of influence over the Americas, marking a formative moment in U.S. foreign policy and emphasizing the perceived distinction between the old world of Europe and the new world of the Americas.

Through this policy, the United States aimed to maintain its sovereignty and promote stability in the region, reinforcing its commitment to non-interference by European powers in Western affairs. This foundational doctrine played a crucial role in shaping future U.S. interactions and foreign policies regarding Latin America.