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Back to the Past? The return ot the 19th Century
Back to the Past? The return ot the 19th Century
The Monroe Doctrine is a foundational principle of U.S. foreign policy articulated by President James Monroe in 1823. It established that the Western Hemisphere was no longer open to European colonization or interference.
Core Tenets of the 1823 Declaration
In his annual address to Congress, Monroe outlined four main points:
Non-colonization: The American continents were not to be considered subjects for future colonization by any European powers.
Two Spheres: The political systems of Europe (monarchies) and the Americas (republics) were fundamentally different and should remain separate.
Non-intervention (U.S.): The United States pledged not to interfere in the internal affairs or existing colonies of European nations.
Defence of Independent States: Any attempt by a European power to oppress or control newly independent nations in the Americas would be viewed as a hostile act against the U.S..
Historical Evolution
Enforcement: Initially, the U.S. lacked the military strength to enforce the doctrine; it was effectively upheld by the British Royal Navy, which shared an interest in keeping other European powers out of Latin American markets.
Roosevelt Corollary (1904): President Theodore Roosevelt expanded the doctrine, asserting the U.S. right to exercise "international police power" to intervene in Latin American countries experiencing instability or "chronic wrongdoing".
Cold War: The doctrine was later invoked to oppose Soviet influence in the Americas, notably during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.
Contemporary Status (2026)
As of early 2026, the Monroe Doctrine has seen a significant resurgence under the administration of President Donald Trump.
Trump Corollary: In January 2026, the administration cited a "Trump Corollary" to justify military action in Venezuela that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
"Donroe Doctrine": Media and political commentators have referred to this modern, assertive application as the "Donroe Doctrine," emphasizing U.S. dominance and the proactive use of military force to secure American interests in the Western Hemisphere.
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