The Monroe Doctrine is all about power. Not like Incredible Hulk power, or Louis XIV power, but a less in-your-face type.
President Monroe challenged centuries of colonization by European nations, whose only opponents had been each other. However, he doesn't just say "Down with Europe, there's a new sheriff in town." Monroe recognizes the power that Europe has in the Americas, promises not to interfere, while also clearly drawing a line in the sand.
He doesn't totally upset the balance of power, but does declare the U.S. to be a new contender in the sort of real-life Game of Thrones (without all the dragons and beheadings…as far as we know).
Questions About Power
- How is the Monroe Doctrine trying to change the balance of power? How is it not?
- How do colonies change the amount of power a country has?
- If Monroe's goal is to challenge European power without ignoring the fact that those countries are, in fact, super powerful, does he succeed?
- Do you think rejecting the offer of a British alliance was a good move? Why or why not?
Chew on This
By being the first to successfully fight for independence, the United States was able to take a power position in the Americas, having a head start in the whole "building a nation" thing. That's why Monroe was able to issue the Monroe Doctrine, and why later presidents could wield its power somewhat effectively.
Monroe's repeated assurances to not interfere with European colonies shows the reality of America's weakness at the time. He knew there was only so far he could go.