What was the purpose of the Monroe Doctrine?

The Monroe Doctrine, articulated by President James Monroe in 1823, was fundamentally aimed at preventing European powers from intervening in the affairs of the newly independent nations of Latin America and maintaining a sphere of influence in the Western Hemisphere. The doctrine asserted that any efforts by European nations to colonize or interfere with states in the Americas would be viewed as acts of aggression, prompting a response from the United States.

By establishing this policy, the United States sought to protect its interests in the Western Hemisphere, allowing it to assert itself as a regional power and discourage European imperial ambitions in the region. This doctrine became a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy and contributed to the idea of American exceptionalism in the years to come, highlighting a commitment to the sovereignty of neighboring countries. The focus was clearly on keeping European powers out rather than fostering trade, encouraging immigration, or expanding military presence in Europe.