LAD #10: Monroe Doctrine

The Monroe Doctrine leads off by stating that through peaceful diplomatic negotiations with both Great Britain and the Czar of Russia disputes regarding American continental territory have been settled, specifically the Pacific Northwest. As a result, Monroe declares the American continent closed to future European colonization. Next, he addresses the situation of war within the Iberian Peninsula, in which America has once again found itself spectating with eagerness. He states that American involvement in trans-Atlantic affairs was been nonexistent and the policy of neutrality in regard to the present situation is to continue; only if American rights "are invaded or seriously menaced" will the government take a military stance against belligerents in Europe. In essence, the European system of governments is different and harmful in comparison to the system adopted in the western hemisphere and America shall remain amicable and neutral towards European powers so as not to bring about the implementation of the European alliances in American affairs. Also, in regard to the recent revolutions in the West Indies, America will not seek to oppress or assert any control over these new nations, but will defend them in the instance of European attempts to reassert control over their prior colonies. Meanwhile, Monroe guarantees that present European protectorates will not be interfered and maintains that the United States will remain neutral in regard to European conflicts until American rights are violated by European powers. The United States has no reason to meddle in the affairs of "de facto" European governments and will continue to cultivate relations with the existing regimes in that they respect the established governments in the western hemisphere.