LAD #10: Monroe Doctrine

         In his proclamation, President Monroe states that in accordance with the governments of Great Britain and of Russia, the United States are free and independent and can no longer be subject to colonization. During this time in history, Spain was undergoing a revolution itself and the president sympathized with the Spanish rebels and their quest for freedom. Similar to Washington, Monroe makes it very clear that the United States will not interfere in the events taking place over seas unless these events cause a direct threat to the United States. This position of neutrality will ensure that the United States don't become entangled in European matters, and more importantly have European governments take control and impose their ideas in the United States. This was critical because the ideas and governments of both continents are so different that their assimilation would create serious problems. Monroe concludes by emphasizing the fact that if the United States become allied with the countries of Europe that their ideas will endanger the American's peace and happiness.